Canada’s Response to the Avro Saga

In the wake of the Avro Arrow’s demise, Canada found itself at a crossroads in its defense strategy. Freed from the Avro contract, the Canadian government made a strategic move by purchasing 66 second-hand Voodoo fighter jets from the United States. These jets, though not matching the speed prowess of the Arrow, provided a crucial supplement to Canada’s defense capabilities. Additionally, Canada joined the Bomarc program, an initiative stemming from the 1957 NORAD agreement with the United States, aimed at bolstering surface-to-air defense with guided missile systems.

Shifting Sentiments and Policy Changes

However, as the decade unfolded, a wave of anti-nuclear sentiment swept through Canadian public opinion, prompting a significant shift in defense policy. In response to these sentiments, Canada opted to withdraw its armed forces from nuclear roles and ultimately shut down the Bomarc system. Ironically, the combined cost of acquiring the Voodoo jets and the Bomarc system exceeded the entire expenditure of the Arrow program.

The Tragic Demise of Avro

The downfall of Avro was swift and tragic in the aftermath of the Arrow’s cancellation. The resignation of Avro’s president, Gordon, in July 1959 marked the beginning of the end. His untimely death in 1967, likely due to alcoholism, further added to the somber narrative. Fred Smye, Avro’s vice president and general manager during the Arrow program, followed suit with his resignation in 1959. By April 1962, Avro met its demise as the parent company, Hawker Siddeley Group, dissolved it, selling off its assets for $15.6 million.

The Legacy of Sir Roy Dobson and Crawford Gordon Jr.

Sir Roy Dobson, representing Avro’s parent company Hawker Siddeley, and Avro president Crawford Gordon Jr., stood at the helm during the tumultuous period of the Arrow’s development. Their leadership, though marked by the program’s ultimate failure, remains intertwined with the legacy of Canadian aerospace history.

Short-Term Disarray, Long-Term Resilience

In the immediate aftermath of the Arrow’s cancellation, Canada’s aerospace industry faced a period of turmoil. Top engineers migrated to other countries, with some contributing to groundbreaking projects such as the Concorde and various initiatives within NASA. However, despite the initial setback, Canada’s aviation and scientific communities proved resilient. Spar Aerospace, a key player in the Arrow project, transitioned to designing the iconic Canadarm, symbolizing Canada’s continued prowess in space exploration.

Looking Ahead: A Thriving Aerospace Sector

Today, Canada’s aerospace industry stands as a testament to resilience and innovation. With a contribution of nearly $25 billion to the gross domestic product and approximately 190,000 jobs, it remains a vital component of the Canadian economy. Despite the challenges of the past, the legacy of the Avro Arrow serves as a reminder of Canada’s enduring commitment to excellence in aviation and technology.