Canada has announced the procurement of 26 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), along with associated munitions and a 10-year industrial and economic plan, strengthening its long-range precision strike capability and reinforcing the North American defence industrial base.
HIMARS is a highly mobile, combat-proven system capable of firing precision-guided munitions at extended ranges. The platform is transportable by C-130 and C-17 aircraft, enabling rapid deployment, and is fully interoperable with NATO forces through the use of standard munitions such as GMLRS and the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM).
The acquisition provides Canada with enhanced operational flexibility, precision targeting across multiple ranges, and a clear modernisation pathway through future upgrades and extended-range capabilities. It also supports seamless integration into allied and coalition operations.
As part of the programme, Lockheed Martin will implement a comprehensive industrial plan aligned with Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy and Industrial and Technological Benefits policy, matching the full contract value with investments into the domestic defence ecosystem.
Over the next decade, the company will invest in Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises, research institutions, and Indigenous partners. Planned initiatives include work in advanced helicopter electro-optics, dual-use clean energy technologies, UAV manufacturing systems, and Arctic-focused defence and commercial infrastructure, aimed at strengthening sovereign capability and export potential.
Lockheed Martin said the initiative will also support talent development and the transfer of advanced technical expertise, contributing to a resilient and secure allied industrial base. The company continues to meet delivery timelines for HIMARS and is working with the U.S. Army and international partners to accelerate production and ensure timely operational readiness.
“HIMARS provides Canada with a reliable, adaptable and forward-looking solution for long-range precision fires,” said Gaylia Campbell, vice president of Lockheed Martin Tactical Missiles. “Lockheed Martin stands ready to support the Canadian Armed Forces in achieving both immediate operational readiness and long-term strategic flexibility – ensuring that Canada can meet today’s threats while preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.”
“With over 85 years of presence and partnership in Canada, we are dedicated to strengthening a sovereign Canadian defence industry that drives meaningful economic impact,” stated Kristen Leroux, vice president and regional executive for Canada and Latin America at Lockheed Martin. “The investments we’ll make under this industrial plan will champion the growth of small-to-medium enterprises and deliver cutting-edge Canadian technology to the aerospace and defence industry.”
