Air Force Public Affairs News Release ************************** North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) is celebrating its Golden Jubilee, an example of the successful cooperation between Canada and the United States.
North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) is celebrating its Golden Jubilee, an example of the successful cooperation between Canada and the United States.
Signed on May 12th, 1958, the NORAD agreement is the longest-standing partnership in our collective histories, and the only agreement of its kind in the world. Originally designed to protect North America against air attack, specifically, from the Soviet Union, NORAD has adapted over the years and remains as relevant today during a new age of asymmetrical threats.
As recently as April 28th, 2006, the NORAD agreement has been expanded to include maritime warning. This addition to the agreement has meant that both Canadians and Americans would be able to process, assess and distribute information concerning internal waterways and coastal areas. Through these tasks NORAD would develop a shared understanding of maritime activity to better identify potential maritime threat to North American security.
Locally, 22 Wing/Canadian Forces Base North Bay, also know as the Canadian Air Defence Sector (CADS) experienced many changes when it underwent a substantial period of modernization. In October 2006, members of the wing moved from the underground complex to the above ground Sergeant David L. Pitcher Building and began training on new equipment that would help them to do their jobs more efficiently.
Today, the men and women of NORAD are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year and represent the strongest element in the success of NORAD and the close ties between the two nations. Master Sergeant (MSgt) Harmon, an instructor with 51 Aerospace Control and Warning (Operational Training) Squadron and a member of the United States Air Force (USAF), believes that NORAD is successful because of the fact that both the Canadian and American militaries work well together. No matter if you are an American or a Canadian, MSgt Harmon remarks that, “the training is standardized, the equipment used is the same which makes the job indistinguishable between countries.” MSgt Harmon has definitely enjoyed his time working at 22 Wing. He has made some great friends during his four years in North Bay and as he prepares to be posted out this summer, will miss his coworkers and students, both American and Canadian.
This anniversary is an occasion to reflect on the history of the command and to recognize its evolution in response to new and changing threats and emerging technologies. It is also an opportunity to honour the strong by-national relationship, the valour of the men and women who serve, and the important role of the many partners – including our local communities – who support our defence team.
For more information people are welcome to visit www.norad.mil/50
