Canada to supply Ukraine with 25 LAV III vehicles and 4 F-16 flight simulators - Trudeau
Photo: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (Getty Images)
Ukraine will receive 25 more LAV III infantry fighting vehicles from Canada. Four flight simulators for F-16s will also be transferred, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says during the Support Ukraine plenary session.
According to him, the relevant weapons will arrive in Ukraine in the coming months.
He adds that Canada is also handing over the first part of the $5 billion aid funded by proceeds from frozen Russian assets.
LAV III infantry fighting vehicle
LAV III (Light Armored Vehicle III) is a Canadian infantry fighting vehicle developed based on the Swiss MOWAG Piranha III. It is used by the Canadian Army and several other countries as the main armored platform for mechanized units. The vehicle is equipped with a powerful diesel engine that provides high maneuverability and has an 8×8 wheel configuration, which allows it to operate effectively both on roads and rough terrain.
The main armament of the LAV III is a 25-mm M242 Bushmaster automatic cannon mounted in a two-man turret, as well as a twin 7.62-mm machine gun and an additional machine gun on the roof. The vehicle is heavily armored to protect against bullets, shrapnel, and explosive devices, and can be additionally equipped with ceramic armor plates. In addition, it is equipped with a modern fire control system and night vision, which allows for effective combat in various conditions.
The LAV III is capable of carrying up to seven infantrymen, providing them with high mobility and protection in combat conditions. It has been widely used in peacekeeping and combat operations, particularly in Afghanistan, where it has proven to be a reliable and well-protected vehicle. Thanks to its modular design, it can be easily upgraded to extend its service life and adapt to modern challenges on the battlefield.
Canada's assistance to Ukraine
Last December, the Canadian parliament decided to allocate 764 million Canadian dollars for military assistance to Ukraine. Before that, it was reported that Canada might transfer to Ukraine some of the firearms that it had banned. The decision will concern 324 types of firearms.
And in mid-November, Canada handed over a modern NASAMS air defense system to Ukraine.
