General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada has been awarded a $133.5 million contract to upgrade an additional 66 LAV III vehicles for the Canadian Armed Forces. This award modifies a contract previously announced in October 2011 to upgrade 550 LAV III vehicles, valued at $1 billion.

In total 616 vehicles will now be modernised under the LAV III Upgrade Project. The work will significantly enhance the vehicles’ survivability, mobility and firepower and will extend the fleet's lifecycle to 2035.

Survivability upgrades will include the introduction of double-V-hull technology, as well as add-on armour protection and energy-attenuating seats. These improvements will provide crew members greater protection against mine blasts, IEDs and other threats.

The company said that the LAV III's automotive performance, handling characteristics and payload capacity will also be enhanced with mobility system upgrades including a more powerful engine, more robust driveline and suspension, and a height management system (HMS). The 25mm turret's crew ergonomics will be improved by incorporating larger hatches, and its capabilities will be enhanced by the addition of the latest technologies, including improved fire control, thermal, day and low-light sights and data displays.

Danny Deep, vice president of General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada, said: ‘Helping to protect the men and women of the Canadian forces is a privileged role, and we understand our responsibility and what is at stake. The upgraded LAV III will provide our Canadian soldiers with one of the most advanced and modern vehicles of this type in the world. It will also provide much-needed job stability throughout Canada's high-value defence sector.’

The company expects the work, to be performed at General Dynamics' facilities in London, Ontario, and Edmonton, and Alberta, to be completed in 2017.