The Canadian Government announced that it has awarded US$1.4 billion (CAD $2 billion) to General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada (GDLS-Canada) for 190 additional Armoured Combat Support Vehicles (ACSVs). Under this order, the company will deliver 190 vehicles to the Canadian Forces, plus a further 35 for donation to Ukraine. The vehicles will be delivered by 2028 in eight mission role variants.
The Government and GDLS- Canada also signed a strategic partnership agreement to support the future development, production, and long-term sustainment of the Army’s wheeled armoured vehicle fleet. The aim of this partnership is to facilitate the development and integration of new technologies and enable the introduction of new capabilities into the fleet through upgrades.
The ACSV is a family of armoured combat and support vehicles based on the LAV 6.0 platform. Introduced in 2019, the vehicle aims to replace the M113 tracked vehicles and earlier wheeled LAV II versions, which were nearing the end of their operational life.
The Canadian forces currently have around 360 ACSVs in service, including those deployed with forces stationed in NATO countries. Additionally, Ukraine has eight to nine vehicles. The ACSV is configured for eight different mission roles, largely distinguished by whether it has a “low-roof” or “high-roof” over the rear compartment.
These include:
- Troop Cargo Vehicle (TCV): Transports soldiers while maintaining the same level of protection and mobility as frontline vehicles.
- Ambulance (which has been delivered to Ukraine).
- Command Post (CP).
- Maintenance Recovery Vehicle (MRV) (with a hydraulic dozer blade and crane).
- Mobile Repair Team Vehicle.
- Engineer Support Vehicle (EV).
- Electronic Warfare (EW).
- Fitter/Cargo Vehicle (FCV).
The ACSV initiative is a vital part of Canada’s efforts to modernise and enhance the readiness and combat capabilities of the Canadian Forces. It further strengthens their commitment to wheeled combat vehicles, a decision first made in the 1970s with the Armoured Vehicle General Purpose (AVGP) and has continued to evolve with the Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV), which has undergone numerous upgrades and enhancements. General Dynamics Land Systems – Canada (originally General Motors – Canada) has been the industry partner in each of these developments.
The focus on combat support functions in this latest acquisition programme is notable because it acknowledges the vital role they play within the total force.
The expanded armoured vehicle fleet that provides supporting services to combat forces will be a significant capability multiplier for the overall force. It will give these elements mobility and protection comparable to the forward units, enabling it to respond fully to their demands.
by Stephen W. Miller
