US Approves $1-Billion Sale of M142 HIMARS to Canada
The US State Department has greenlit a potential $1.75-billion sale of the Lockheed Martin-made M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) to Canada.
Ottawa requested 26 M142 HIMARS, along with 132 M31A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) unitary pods with Insensitive Munitions Propulsion System (IMPS), and 132 M30A2 GMLRS alternative warhead (AW) pods with IMPS.
The package also covers 32 M403 Extended Range (ER) GMLRS AW pods with IMPS, 32 M404 ER GMLRS unitary pods with IMPS, and 64 M57 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) pods.
In addition, low-cost reduced-range practice rocket pods, interactive electronic technical manuals, integration support services, spare parts, tool kits, test equipment, and related elements of logistics and program support are included.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency noted how the proposed sale is meant to enhance Canada’s military capabilities and its contribution “to collective hemispheric defense and to defense and deterrence in Europe, as directed by NATO’s defense plans.”
Landmark Deal
The deal still requires US Congressional approval and a final Canadian government agreement to proceed.
Reports of the potential acquisition circulated in March this year, saying that Ottawa planned to procure the US-built system amid strained ties over tariffs.
If approved, this will be the first time the Canadian Armed Forces will operate the long-range and mobile multiple rocket launcher platform.
