US approves $1.75 billion HIMARS sale to Canada

The US State Department has given approval for a potential $1.75 billion sale of High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and associated munitions to Canada, the Pentagon confirmed on October 1.

Under the proposed deal, cited by Canadian media, Canada would acquire 26 of the US-made mobile launchers along with hundreds of rocket pods, including dozens of long-range Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) units. 

The request for the systems and ammunition had been submitted by the Canadian Army as part of efforts to modernise its artillery capabilities.

According to a statement from the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the transaction aligns with Washington’s foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the military capacity of a close North Atlantic Treaty Organisation ally.

The agency described Canada as an essential partner in promoting political stability and economic development, and as a consistent contributor to global military, peacekeeping, and humanitarian missions.

The DSCA further emphasised that the transfer of HIMARS systems would bolster Canada’s role in collective defence within the Western Hemisphere and enhance NATO’s deterrence posture in Europe.

Implementation of the sale will involve ongoing US support. The Pentagon expects as many as 20 government officials and up to 15 defence contractor representatives to make recurring visits to Canada — approximately twice a year — to assist with equipment delivery, integration, and training.

The agency stressed that the agreement would not have any negative impact on US defence readiness.

By Tamilla Hasanova