New aircraft will help police combat auto theft, organized crime and dangerous driving
MISSISSAUGA — As part of its plan to protect Ontario and keep communities safe, the Ontario government has delivered the first Joint Air Support Unit helicopter in Peel Region. The deployment marks the first helicopter to enter service through Ontario’s Joint Air Support Unit, a $191 million provincewide initiative that is expanding aerial policing capacity across Ontario.
“Criminals are becoming more sophisticated, and our government is making sure police have the tools to stay ahead of them,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “This new helicopter will help officers respond faster, coordinate more effectively and strengthen the fight against organized crime, auto theft and dangerous criminal activity.”
“Keeping our communities safe starts with standing behind the men and women who protect them every day. Our police officers put their safety on the line to protect our families, and they deserve the right tools and support to do their jobs effectively,” said Silvia Gualtieri, MPP, Mississauga East-Cooksville. “This is an investment in our police, an investment in public safety, and an investment in the peace of mind of every family in our community.”
The new H-125 helicopter will help Peel Regional Police track stolen vehicles, respond to critical incidents, monitor dangerous driving and support investigations targeting organized crime. Equipped with advanced aviation and surveillance technology, the aircraft will strengthen frontline policing by helping officers locate suspects, coordinate emergency responses and support major public safety operations. The helicopter will also support regional and provincial policing operations through collaboration with neighbouring police services and the Ontario Provincial Police.
“Thanks to the Ontario government, Peel Regional Police is expanding its air support capabilities through the Joint Air Support Unit, with the addition of its first helicopter,” said Nishan Duraiappah, Chief of the Peel Regional Police. “This helicopter will greatly assist our officers in locating missing people faster, safely tracking suspects from the sky, and responding more effectively to critical incidents. It is another important tool that will help our officers stay ahead of evolving threats and continue keeping our communities safe.”
Ontario is investing $134 million in the Joint Air Support Unit for police services to acquire five helicopters to serve the GTA and Ottawa, and an additional $57 million, announced in Budget 2025, for two H-135 helicopters that will support Windsor Police Service and Niagara Regional Police Service.