According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the request covers 132 M31A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Unitary pods, 132 M30A2 GMLRS Alternative Warhead pods, 32 M403 Extended Range (ER) GMLRS AW pods, 32 M404 ER GMLRS Unitary pods, and 64 M57 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) pods. These will be equipped with Insensitive Munitions Propulsion Systems (IMPS), designed for increased safety and reliability in combat conditions.
In addition to the major defence equipment, the proposed package includes a range of support items such as practice rocket pods, technical manuals, integration services, spare parts, test equipment, training systems, and secure communications tools including Type 1 radios and 7800I intercom systems. Contractor logistics support, technical publications, and U.S. government and contractor assistance are also part of the agreement.
“The proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the military capability of Canada, a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Ally that is an important force for ensuring political stability and economic progress and is a contributor to military, peacekeeping, and humanitarian operations around the world,” the DSCA stated.
The acquisition aims to strengthen Canada’s ability to respond to current and emerging threats, particularly through NATO defence and deterrence efforts in Europe. “This capability will protect Canada by improving Canada’s contribution to collective hemispheric defense and to defense and deterrence in Europe, as directed by NATO’s defense plans,” the agency added.
Canada is expected to absorb the systems into its armed forces without difficulty, and the purchase will not affect the existing military balance in the region. Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractor for the programme.
Source: Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
