Canada is preparing to finalize a major military deal to acquire HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) from the United States. This move is part of the Long-Range Precision Strike project, which aims to strengthen Canada’s ability to carry out long-range attacks.
Canada Moves Forward with HIMARS Purchase
The HIMARS system is considered one of the most advanced multiple rocket launcher systems in modern warfare, providing high-precision strikes while maintaining mobility.
The deal is being carried out through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, a system that allows the U.S. government to sell weapons and military equipment directly to allied nations. Under this program, Canada will receive HIMARS launchers, fire control software, ammunition, and spare parts. The total budget for this program is $5 billion, making it one of the most significant military investments by Canada in recent years.
HIMARS is a mobile rocket artillery system that is mounted on a 6×6 tactical truck chassis. It can fire six MLRS-series rockets or a single ATACMS tactical missile, with a maximum range of 300 kilometers.
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The system is designed for high-precision strikes and rapid repositioning, allowing it to fire and quickly move to a different location before being targeted by enemy forces. With a three-person crew, HIMARS is also automated and easy to operate, making it a valuable asset for modern warfare.
However, while the HIMARS acquisition is expected to enhance Canada’s defense capabilities, it has also raised serious concerns about the country’s growing dependence on U.S. military equipment.
Concerns Over Dependence on U.S. Military Equipment
The HIMARS purchase is part of a broader pattern where Canada has relied heavily on U.S. defense manufacturers for its military modernization. In 2023 alone, Canada committed nearly $30 billion to military acquisitions, with the majority of contracts awarded to U.S.-based firms.
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These included:
$8 billion contract for reconnaissance aircraft with Boeing.
$2.5 billion contract for advanced drone systems.
The increasing reliance on U.S.-made weaponry and technology has sparked debates among military analysts and industry experts. Some believe that this dependence could limit Canada’s ability to operate independently in the event of diplomatic tensions or policy disagreements with Washington.
A major issue is the technological control that the U.S. has over military equipment used by Canada. Several of Canada’s most advanced defense systems, including the F-35 fighter jets and warships, rely on U.S.-controlled software and communication networks. This means that key functions such as software updates, system maintenance, and operational modifications require approval or assistance from the U.S. government.
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Concerns about this dependence have grown due to ongoing trade and economic tensions between the two nations. The U.S. has imposed tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, and there have been threats of restrictions on the Canadian automotive industry. These disputes raise questions about how Canada would respond if military cooperation with the U.S. were ever disrupted.
Some experts suggest that Canada should explore European or domestic alternatives to reduce its reliance on U.S. weapons. However, Canada’s longstanding military ties with the U.S. make such diversification difficult.
HIMARS: A Key Weapon in Modern Warfare
Despite concerns over dependence, HIMARS remains a highly effective weapon system that has proven its value in modern combat operations. It features an armored cabin that protects the crew from small-arms fire and shrapnel, making it safer in battle zones.
One of the most significant advantages of HIMARS is its mobility and rapid deployment capabilities. The system is C-130 transportable, meaning it can be quickly moved to different locations as needed. This allows for flexible deployment, whether for supporting ground forces or launching precision strikes on enemy positions.
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HIMARS has been used in recent conflicts, demonstrating its effectiveness in long-range artillery warfare. Its ability to fire quickly and relocate makes it difficult for enemies to track and counterattack, significantly increasing its survival rate on the battlefield.
Although the acquisition strengthens Canada’s military firepower, it also reinforces the dominance of U.S. companies in Canadian defense contracts. With most of Canada’s major defense deals awarded to American firms, the debate over Canada’s military sovereignty and industrial independence is likely to continue.
