MMF and Babcock Canada establish a strategic partnership and position for future opportunities in aviation

WINNIPEG, MB, IN THE NATIONAL HOMELAND OF THE RED RIVER MÉTIS, Oct. 29, 2026 /CNW/ -- The Métis Economic Development Organization (MEDO), the economic development affiliate of the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Babcock Canada Inc. (Babcock), a leading provider of aviation, aerospace, engineering, and technical support services.

The MoU establishes a long-term framework for collaboration between MEDO and Babcock to identify and pursue opportunities related to aviation operations, aerospace services, maintenance and support activities, infrastructure development, and other strategic initiatives that create economic benefits and employment opportunities for Red River Métis Citizens and all Manitobans.

In alignment with the MoU, MEDO and Babcock also announced a joint pursuit through the creation of Infinity Aviation. The new company intends to apply for an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), allowing it to conduct commercial air services across Canada, including aerial firefighting operations and provide other critical aviation support services. The partnership will combine the MMF and MEDO's strategic assets and resources with Babcock's deep aviation expertise, positioning Infinity Aviation to contribute to aerial firefighting in eastern Manitoba and protecting the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

The MMF and MEDO bring important elements to the relationship, including access to its Pine Dock airstrip located on the southern shores of Lake Winnipeg's north basin. The airstrip's location is well-suited as a key infrastructure element to deliver on Manitoba's recent Request for Information related to wildfire response capabilities in the region.

"Babcock is pleased to establish this relationship with the Manitoba Métis Federation," said Tony March, Chief Executive Officer of Babcock Canada. "We are excited to partner with the MMF and MEDO, who share our values of creating a safe and secure world.  We look forward to exploring opportunities that combine Babcock's technical expertise and aviation operational experience with MEDO's commitment to economic development and long-term prosperity for Red River Métis Citizens."

Babcock provides critical aviation and engineering services, including systems engineering, project management, integrated logistics support, maintenance, repair and overhaul services, aerial firefighting operations, and in-service support capabilities for public and private sector clients across Canada. The collaboration is intended to identify opportunities where combined strengths can support economic development, workforce growth, and enhanced aviation capacity in Manitoba and beyond.

With the signing of the MoU and the launch of Infinity Aviation, MEDO and Babcock will work together to evaluate and pursue opportunities such as the Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT) service for the Government of Manitoba.

"The MMF is committed to building partnerships that create long-term economic opportunities for our Citizens while strengthening Red River Métis participation in strategic industries," said David Chartrand, President of the MMF and Chair of MEDO. "Babcock is a globally respected aerospace and aviation company with extensive experience supporting governments and industry. Through this agreement, we are laying the foundation for initiatives that can create jobs, build expertise, and position Red River Métis Citizens to participate meaningfully in the future growth of Canada's aviation and aerospace sectors."

About the Métis Economic Development Organization (MEDO)
The Métis Economic Development Organization Ltd. (MEDO) is the MMF's economic development affiliate, responsible for developing partnerships, acquiring businesses, and making strategic investments that generate employment, build capacity, and support long-term financial self-sufficiency for Red River Métis Citizens.

About Babcock Canada

Babcock combines the best Canadian talent and in-country expertise with deep global knowledge. Drawing on decades of international experience, Babcock delivers fully integrated solutions tailored specifically for Canada and its unique environment across the land, marine, and aviation sectors. 

In the aviation sector, Babcock is a trusted provider to civil and defence customers, with extensive Canadian and global expertise in critical asset management. Babcock's capability to deliver integrated fleet management brings together their expertise in maintenance, repair and overhaul, in-service support, and multiple other capabilities enabling life-cycle management of critical assets.

SOURCE Manitoba Métis Federation

For more information, media may contact: Kat Patenaude, Media Relations Advisor, Manitoba Métis Federation, 204-801-7710, [email protected]; For more information about Babcock Canada, media may contact: Nicholas Avellaneda, Head of Communications, Babcock Canada Inc., 613-295-3120, [email protected]