General Dynamics wins $1 billion from Government of Canada to upgrade LAV III vehicles

Posted by Courtney E. HowardEDMONTON, Alberta, 24 Oct. 2011. General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada won a $1.064 billion Canadian (translating to roughly $1.052 billion U.S.) contract from the Government of Canada to upgrade the Canadian Army's fleet of LAV III combat vehicles. The LAV III Upgrade Project calls for the modernization of 550 vehicles, with the goal of extending the fleet's life cycle through 2035.

General Dynamics engineers will upgrade the LAV III’s 25mm turret with addition of improved fire control;thermal, day, and low-light sights, and data displays. The LAV III's automotive performance, handling characteristics, and payload capacity will be optimized with mobility system upgrades: a more powerful engine, a more robust driveline and suspension, and a height management system (HMS). Survivability upgrades include double-V-hull technology developed by General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada engineers, add-on armour protection, and energy-attenuating seats.

The combat vehicles gain greater protection against mine blasts, IEDs, and other threats.

Much of the work will be performed at General Dynamics facilities in London, Ontario, and Edmonton, Alberta, as well as the company's nationwide network of more than 400 Canadian suppliers. All regions of Canada will benefit from this work, which is expected to be completed in 2017.