S
SIT REP
DIA Awards Contract to Replace CAF Assault Rifles
(CMAR) initiative, replacing the C7/C8 fleet that has been in
service for more than 35 years.
The project delivers in two phases. Phase 1 covers 30,000
General Service rifles over three years, valued at approximate-
ly $307 million including taxes. Phase 2, beginning in year
four under an optional provision, adds 19,207 General Service
rifles and 16,195 Full Spectrum rifles, along with associated
ancillaries. The Full Spectrum variant is optimised for front-
line combat and offensive operations in urban and open ter-
rain. The General Service variant provides personal protection
and deterrence for personnel across the broader CAF. Ammu-
nition produced under the CMAR initiative will also be made
in Canada.
The new rifles will enhance the awareness, protection, and
reliability of deployed CAF members. Colt Canada's commit-
ment to at least 80% Canadian content will generate supply
chain opportunities for companies across the country, with the
investment projected to contribute roughly $10 million annu-
ally to Canada's GDP over the next five years.
CMAR was advanced through a direct acquisition using a
Risk-Based Approach, streamlining the procurement process
and accelerating delivery to the CAF. It is among the first wave
of high-priority procurements delivered through the DIA.
"Rifles remain foundational to soldier effectiveness in the
field, and this development brings over 40 years of technology
evolution to Canada's fighting forces," said Lieutenant-General
M.C. Wright, Commander Canadian Army.
Secretary of State Stephen Fuhr, Minister of National Defence
David McGuinty, and Colt Canada employees at the CMAR contract
announcement in Kitchener, Ontario, March 19, 2026. Image source:
https://x.com/PSPC_SPAC/status/2034654389340659820/photo/1
12 APRIL/MAY 2026 www.vanguardcanada.com
The Defence Investment Agency has awarded a contract to
Colt Canada of Kitchener, Ontario, to acquire up to 65,402 as-
sault rifle systems under the Canadian Modular Assault Rifle
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