The contract, granted by the Canadian Defence Investment Agency, includes the delivery of 30,000 rifles between 2026 and 2029, with options for additional quantities. The programme was formally launched at an event held at Colt Canada’s manufacturing facility in Kitchener, Ontario.
Canadian officials said the project is part of a broader effort to modernise military capabilities while supporting domestic industry. “Providing modern, reliable capabilities to the Canadian Armed Forces is central to the Defence Investment Agency’s mission, and our streamlined approach will deliver this capability to our troops faster. This contract with Colt Canada advances Canada’s new Defence Industrial Strategy by strengthening domestic production, creating good paying jobs, and growing our economy. By investing in advanced systems and Canadian expertise, we are ensuring our Forces remain ready for the challenges ahead while building a stronger, more resilient defence industry at home,” said Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement.
Big news: The Canadian Modular Assault Rifle (CMAR) is coming!
We’re replacing the C7/C8 rifle family with a modern, Canadian-made system that delivers 40 years of technology evolution. This is about precision, adaptability, and readiness for the future fight. 1/3 https://t.co/rP3ZrgfNdR— Canadian Army (@CanadianArmy) March 19, 2026
Colt Canada said it would continue its long-standing role as a supplier to the Canadian military. “Colt Canada is proud to continue supporting the Canadian Armed Forces through the CMAR program. We remain committed to delivering high-quality, Canadian-manufactured solutions that meet the evolving needs of Canada’s soldiers,” said Sean Congdon, President and CEO of Colt Canada.
The parent company, Colt CZ Group, highlighted its international defence partnerships and experience in supplying NATO forces. “Colt CZ Group and its companies have a proven track record of longstanding partnerships with NATO countries. I am proud that Colt Canada, apart from being a member of the Canadian government’s Munitions Supply Program and a trusted partner of Canadian army, is also a reliable partner of many European customers, including the Dutch, Danish, and British Armies,” said Radek Musil, CEO of Colt CZ Group.
Colt Canada has supplied military and law enforcement customers for more than 50 years and serves as the exclusive small arms provider to the Canadian Armed Forces. The contract underscores continued investment in domestic manufacturing capabilities and the modernisation of Canada’s infantry equipment.
