Behind the Scenes of Success: Meet 17 Mission Support Squadron

For anyone newly posted to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Winnipeg—or even just curious about what makes the base function day to day—there’s a quiet powerhouse operating behind the scenes: 17 Mission Support Squadron (17 MSS). Headquartered in the AVM Collard Building (Building 129), this diverse and dynamic unit ensures the base runs smoothly, whether supporting daily operations or enabling critical deployments abroad.

Formed on 11 July 2016 as part of a larger Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) restructure, 17 MSS was created to better align how the RCAF supports operations at home with how it deploys abroad. The goal? To build a more agile, responsive, and mission-focused support unit—and the results have been impressive. Today, 17 MSS supports more than 110 units from Dundurn, Saskatchewan to Thunder Bay, Ontario.

At its core, 17 MSS is about enabling success. The Squadron's motto speaks to its mission, but its symbol—the Red River Cart and ox—adds even more meaning. Chosen for its historical importance and cultural resonance, the cart represents strength, ingenuity, and mobility. It also ties 17 MSS to the rich Métis and prairie history of the region, underscoring the Squadron’s enduring connection to the people and place it serves.

 What Does 17 MSS Do?

The short answer: quite a lot. From feeding troops to maintaining fire trucks, the squadron encompasses a wide range of services that many members of CFB Winnipeg rely on every single day.

Construction Engineering FlightThis team ensures CFB Winnipeg’s infrastructure is up to the task. Whether repairing a heating system in mid-winter or building new facilities, their mission is to provide reliable, responsive engineering support. Their vision is to create an environment where both civilian and military members can grow, innovate, and lead—always with a strong emphasis on safety and environmental responsibility.

Wing Replenishment FlightYou can’t operate a base—or run a deployment—without food, supplies, and the ability to move people and equipment. The Wing Replenishment Officer oversees three critical services:

·       Supply Services: Handling warehousing, procurement, and repair/disposal of material, including direct support to 1 Canadian Air Division.

·       Food Services: Operating kitchens and flight feeding services that support operational and training needs, from daily meals to mission-ready rations.

Transportation Electrical Mechanical Engineering (TEME) FlightTEME ensures that land-based equipment—from snowplows to specialized vehicles—is maintained, ready, and safe to use. They also provide the transportation expertise needed to move personnel and equipment efficiently, whether around the base or across the country. Their mission and vision are rooted in leadership, safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Additional Services provided by 17 MSS17 MSS also includes Wing Fire Services, the Clothing Stores, and the tailor shop—vital functions that not only support safety and professionalism but also contribute to morale and readiness.

Whether you’re new to the Canadian Armed Forces or just new to CFB Winnipeg, knowing what MSS does helps you understand the backbone of base operations. From the buildings we work in to the uniforms we wear, from the food in the mess to the vehicles we rely on—if it supports the mission, 17 MSS is likely involved.

Because of 17 MSS, CFB Winnipeg continues to operate with strength, efficiency, and the steadfast commitment to excellence that defines the Royal Canadian Air Force.