It is used in a wide variety of roles, including aerial firepower, reconnaissance, search and rescue and aero-mobility tasks.

It was delivered between 1995 and 1997 in one of two configurations, the Combat Support Squadron (CSS) version for search and rescue missions, and the Utility Tactical Transport Helicopter (UTTH), which carries a crew of three and an eight-man section.

[4] The Griffon can be equipped with various specialized bolt-on mission kits which can enhance its performance, from increasing range to improving protection against enemy fire, etc.

Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Inc. was awarded a C$640 million contract to overhaul and repair the CH-146 fleet until retirement in 2021.

[11] In April 2024, the Government of Canada announced plans to spend C$18.4 billion over 20 years to acquire additional helicopters that are more "modern, mobile, and effective" to increase the speed and airlift capacity in responding to natural disasters, emergencies, and assertions of sovereignty.

[11] Some of the task the helicopters are used for are training, utility, tactical transport, search and rescue, armed escort for Chinooks.

[17] In May 2016, four Griffons were deployed as part of Operation LENTUS 16-01, to provide emergency services for victims of the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire.

On 26 November 2008, the Canadian Forces announced in a statement that eight Griffons would be modified to act as armed escorts for CH-147 Chinook helicopters in Afghanistan.

[23][24][25] Equipped with a M134D Minigun, the helicopters were employed in a defensive and support role, including the evacuation of battlefield casualties.

[28]The CH-146 was ruled out for the Afghan mission by General Rick Hillier when he was Chief of Defence Staff in 2008 due to being underpowered.

Shadwick stated in July 2009:[30] Its engines are fine for most domestic requirements in Canada and a more moderate temperature, but [the Griffon] doesn't really have the horsepower to reach its full potential in a place like Afghanistan.

[30]At the inquest into the death of Capt Ben Babington-Browne (killed on 6 July 2009 in the crash of aircraft #146434), Lt Cdr William Robley of the UK Defence Helicopter Flying School confirmed that operating the aircraft at that altitude, temperature and weight meant that it was not the correct helicopter for that mission.

[30]Starting in 2025, Canada is planning to send 4 Griffon's to Latvia, as part of a NATO mission there, specifically Operation REASSURANCE.