The US State Department has approved the potential sale of Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) to Canada, valued at an estimated $160 million.
The Canadian government requested the purchase of up to 60 JLTVs and nine JLTV cargo trailers.
Ottawa has also requested communication and mobility equipment, lethality and survivability upgrades, along with spare and repair parts.
“The proposed sale will improve Canada’s ability to meet current and future threats and enhance its ability to operate in more complex and rapidly changing environments,” the Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated.
“The proposed sale would also contribute to increased burden-sharing with allies and partners in support of peace operations and peacekeeping around the world.”
Indiana-based AM General is the principal contractor for the potential deal, with any offset agreements to be determined during negotiations.
The US approval comes as Canada considers diversifying its arms purchases away from the US to other allies.
A planned acquisition of F-35 fighter jets from the US was also under review, though recent reports indicate that the Canadian military supports the procurement.
Joint Light Tactical Vehicle
In 2023, AM General was awarded a contract to produce the off-road tactical vehicle, succeeding Oshkosh’s initial manufacturing.
The new JLTV A2 variant incorporates hardware and software upgrades to enhance its capabilities.
It is quieter, more fuel-efficient, and more resistant to corrosion, according to a US Army spokesperson.
The original 21-foot (6-meter) version weighs 11 tons (10,206 kilograms) and accommodates up to four personnel.
It is equipped with light armor and can be armed with machine guns, grenade launchers, and guided missiles.
The JLTV is powered by a 400-horsepower Duramax-based engine from Gale Banks Engineering, providing a range of 300 miles (483 kilometers) and a top speed of 70 miles (113 kilometers) per hour.
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