Canadair Ltd. was a prominent Canadian aerospace manufacturer, renowned for producing over 4,000 aircraft, primarily for military purposes. The company, based in Quebec, played a significant role in Canada's aviation history, producing iconic aircraft and contributing to the nation's technological advancements.
Canadair Ltd. originated from the aircraft division of Canadian Vickers Ltd., established in 1923. Canadian Vickers, known for its shipbuilding expertise, expanded into aircraft production during the interwar period.
In 1944, the Canadian government reorganized the company under the name Canadair Ltd. to assume the aircraft design and manufacturing activities previously held by Canadian Vickers. This move aimed to strengthen Canada's domestic aircraft production capabilities in the postwar era.
Canadair went through various ownership changes, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the aerospace industry. It was sold to Electric Boat Co. of the US in 1946, became a subsidiary of General Dynamics Corp in 1952, and transitioned to a Crown Corporation in 1976. Finally, in 1986, Canadair was acquired by Bombardier Inc., a prominent Canadian transportation conglomerate.
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