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The Canadian Forces is hoping to purchase what it is calling an aeromedical bio-containment evacuation system that can be outfitted on its C-17 or C-130J aircraft.

The equipment, also known as ABES, will be capable of transporting highly infectious disease patients on the aircraft.

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The Royal Canadian Air Force is looking to have these delivered to 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario by Oct. 31, 2020, said Department of National Defence spokesman Dan LeBouthillier.

“This project is in support of federal efforts to assist civil authorities and non-governmental partners in responding to major international and domestic emergencies,” he explained. “As required, this acquisition will provide the whole of government approach with additional tools to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

He noted the Canadian military already has interim capabilities in this area as the RCAF can transport a patient with a highly infectious disease in a specialized isolation unit by aircraft.