Renewing the Canadian Forces' Heavy Truck Capability

Canadian Department of National Defence, OTTAWA: The ongoing commitment of Canada’s New Government to the safety of Canadian Forces members engaged in deployed operations was further reinforced today, thanks to an announcement that 82 Armoured Heavy Support Vehicle Systems (AHSVS) will be immediately provided by DaimlerChrysler AG to the Canadian Forces. This purchase will help renew the Forces’ heavy truck capability. 
 
“Heavily armoured trucks will ensure that our soldiers have the best possible protection as they carry out their duties,” said Minister Gordon O’Connor. “When these trucks begin arriving this year in Afghanistan, Canadian army transportation will be more robust and effective.” 
 
“With this contract, the Government of Canada has followed through on its commitment to buy critical equipment for our Canadian Forces through an open, fair and transparent process,” said the Honourable Michael M. Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada. 
 
“This project will provide substantial benefits for Canadian industry,” said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Industry Canada. “For every contract dollar awarded, DaimlerChrysler AG will commit a corresponding dollar in economic activity in Canada.” 
 
“These new vehicles will have an immediate impact on how we can support operations,” said General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff. “They will provide high levels of crew protection, incorporating mine blast resistance and protection against both Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and ballistic threats.” 
 
DaimlerChrysler AG will immediately provide 82 AHSVS to replace the Heavy Logistics Vehicle Wheeled (HLVW) trucks currently being used in Afghanistan. 
 
Initial delivery of the AHSVS to Afghanistan will commence in the fall of 2007. In total, the project will provide the Canadian Forces with at least 82 vehicles, broken down in four main variants: cargo, recovery, tank transporter tractor, and palletized loading system. The contract also includes an option to procure an additional 26 AHSVS of various variants. 
 
The AHSVS was procured through a fair, open and transparent competitive process, ensuring that the equipment meets the needs of the men and women of the Canadian Forces while making sure that Canadian taxpayers get the best value for money. 
 
The estimated total contract value of this heavy truck acquisition is C$87 million. Benefits for Canadian industry will be substantial. For every contract dollar awarded, DaimlerChrysler AG will commit a corresponding dollar in economic activity in Canada.