Military Training Exercise to take place next to Pikwàkanagàn

Residents across Renfrew County may notice increased military activity in the area from October 13th to November 10th, 2026, as the Canadian Armed Forces conduct the Basic Tactical Aviation Course (BTAC) 2602 from Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.

As part of the training, residents may see Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CH-146 Griffon and CH-147F Chinook helicopters operating at low altitudes within authorized training areas.

What You May See and Hear

The exercise will involve armed infantry and simulated enemy forces conducting realistic aviation-borne operations. As a result, residents may observe military personnel, vehicles and aircraft operating throughout the region.

Training may also involve blank ammunition and pyrotechnics, including flares and smoke. These effects are part of controlled simulations intended to replicate battlefield conditions and provide realistic training for participating personnel.

Simulated enemy forces will be identifiable by orange hunting caps and orange or yellow reflective armbands worn on the left arm. All weapons used during the exercise will be clearly identified, and weapons firing blank ammunition will be fitted with blank firing adapters.

Blank ammunition will only be used within designated training areas and at authorized Land User Agreement locations. Local authorities will be advised of simulation activities.

No Cause for Concern

Residents may hear unfamiliar aircraft and other training-related noise during the exercise. There is no cause for concern.

All training activities will take place during daylight hours to help minimize noise impacts on surrounding communities. RCAF flying operations are carefully planned and closely supervised with public safety as a priority. Aircraft operations remain subject to weather and other flying conditions.