The RCMP says it’s investigating former Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) fighter pilots involved in training Chinese military pilots.
“The RCMP is aware of the report of former RCAF pilots taking part in training People’s Liberation Army Air Force pilots,” Sgt. Kim Chamberland told The Epoch Times in an email on Sept. 5. “As the RCMP is investigating these incidents, there will be no further comment on this matter at this time.
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Under the act, an individual convicted of indictable offences could be imprisoned for up to 14 years; those convicted on summary conviction could be sentenced to up to one year in prison or a fine of up to $2,000, or both.
DND reiterated this statement in an email to The Epoch Times, issued on Sept. 5.
“The Security of Information Act applies to both current and former members, and non-compliance with the Act could result in serious consequences. Any behaviour that could potentially harm Canadian national interests is a violation of this trust and will be dealt with appropriately,” it said.
The department did not provide a direct response when asked about the national security implications of former CAF members training PLA pilots. The department instead highlighted the commitment of its members to preserving national security.
“As an institution that upholds democratic principles and the rule of law, we trust and expect current and former CAF members to adhere to the values of the institution,” it said.
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The three former RCAF members allegedly training PLA fighter pilots are reported to be offering their services through the Test Flying Academy of South Africa (TFASA), according to the Globe and Mail.
The company emphasized that it has been operating with “the full knowledge of NATO defense and security agencies for over a decade.” Additionally, TFASA noted that its communications with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigation, and the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, indicate that it has “broken no laws.”
The company pointed to a similar engagement with the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), stating that the MoD has confirmed that they do not believe TFASA is involved in activities that violate current UK law.
The Epoch Times has reached out to the TFASA for comment regarding the allegations concerning the former Canadian fighter pilots’ involvement in training PLA pilots. The company did not provide an immediate response.
