To protect Canadians out on the battlefield, the government will be working with the Forest City to upgrade 141 Light Armor Vehicles.
Canada’s National Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan announced on Friday that $404 million is being invested in General Dynamics to make adjustments to the vehicles.
The organization will work on improving mobility, protection, ergonomics and information management for the LAVs.
“The legacy of troops and their vehicles is a constant reminder of why this is important,” Sajjan said.
Sajjan says he has personally witnessed the importance of the vehicles in combat and their potential to save lives.
The investment is expected to support both soldiers abroad and Canadians here at home.
“The London operations of GDLS Canada alone employs 2,000 people in advanced skilled jobs,” Sajjan said. “Today’s announcement keeps 250 Londoners at work on just these jobs and that’s what is important.”
Sajjan says upgraded LAVs are currently being sent internationally.
He adds that the upgrades will reduce maintenance costs and increase the lifespan of the vehicles to 2035.