The Government of Canada has announced that, in January 2026, Canada and the United States (US) finalized a government-to-government agreement under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) Program for the acquisition of 26 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers, a preliminary operational stock of munitions, spare parts, training, and support services, with deliveries expected to begin in 2029.
The total acquisition cost for LRPS(L) project, including project management, infrastructure, contracts, and contingency, is estimated at $2.6 billion CAD.
As global security challenges continue to evolve, the Government of Canada is advancing investments to provide the Canadian Armed Forces with the capabilities required to protect Canadians and contribute to international security. Canada’s 2024 defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free, initiated the Long Range Precision Strike (Land) (LRPS(L)) project to acquire advanced long-range missile capabilities.
Following a rigorous evaluation process, HIMARS was identified as the only solution that best met Canada’s operational and technical requirements.
There is currently no Canadian manufacturer for the HIMARS launcher system or associated long-range missile capability. HIMARS is not commercially available, the capability is only available through the United States (U.S.) Foreign Military Sales (FMS) Program. In support of this acquisition, the Congressional Notification process was completed in Fall 2025. The launcher systems will be paired with long-range munitions capable of precisely engaging targets at distances of more than 300 kilometres, revolutionizing how the Canadian Army conducts operations and supports joint forces on future missions. The systems are also designed to integrate future land-based anti-ship missile capabilities to support the defence of Canada’s coasts, including the Arctic.
This investment will strengthen Canada’s ability to defend its territory, contribute to continental defence and support operations alongside allies and partners.
As part of Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy obligations, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control will undertake meaningful business activities and invest in Canadian industry to support the growth of Canada’s defence sector. Lockheed Martin plans to integrate Canadian companies into global supply chains, invest in Canadian research and development, and support the development of small and medium-sized businesses.
Canada continues to work closely with trusted allies and partners, including the U.S., to deliver critical capabilities for the Canadian Armed Forces.
This acquisition represents a significant modernization milestone for the Canadian Army and supports broader investments outlined in Canada’s defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free.
Quotes
“Canada’s Armed Forces must have the capabilities required to meet today’s threats and tomorrow’s challenges. The long-range missile capability is a critical step in supporting our military so it remains ready and equipped to protect Canadians and support our allies and partners when needed.”
The Honourable David J. McGuinty,
Minister of National Defence
“In a rapidly changing security environment, standing still is not an option. The Long Range Precision Strike (Land) project will give the Canadian Armed Forces the ability to engage targets at long range and operate more effectively alongside our closest allies, while responding to emerging threats. And through our Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, we are turning this investment into good-paying Canadian jobs, supporting workers and creating opportunities for industry across the country.”
The Honourable Joël Lightbound,
Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant
“Our government will always use our purchasing power to advance Canada’s economic interests and support the workers and companies that keep our country strong. As part of this procurement, Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy will be applied, which will require the company to invest directly in Canada’s economy by strengthening our industrial base, integrating Canadian firms into global supply chains, and supporting the research, innovation, and small businesses that drive our growth.”
The Honourable Mélanie Joly
Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
“Our government is investing in long-range missile capabilities that will deliver the advanced systems we need to ensure our security and readiness in this rapidly changing world. We are committed to equipping the Canadian Armed Forces with the tools they need to protect Canada, while creating opportunities for our economy and good-paying jobs for Canadians.”
The Honourable Stephen Fuhr,
Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)
“This capability marks a major step forward in modernizing the Canadian Army. High Mobility Artillery Rocket System will give the Army a mobile, long-range precision strike capability that can be deployed across Canada, including the Arctic, and abroad using existing Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft. When integrated with other modern capabilities—such as self-propelled artillery systems, sensors, and command and control—it will strengthen Canada’s ability to deter aggression, safeguard our sovereignty, and protect Canadians.”
Lieutenant-General Michael Wright,
Commander Canadian Army
Quick Facts
· The LRPS(L) capability supports Canada’s commitment to meeting North Atlantic Treaty Organization defence spending targets.
· The U.S. Government’s Foreign Military Sales program allows foreign allies and partners of the U.S. to acquire defence articles, services, and training through government-to-government agreements. The FMS program is overseen by the U.S. Department of State and is managed and executed by the U.S. Department of War.
· The total acquisition cost for LRPS(L) – including project management costs, infrastructure, contracts, and contingency – is estimated at $2.6 billion CAD.
· While the acquisition under the FMS program covers the procurement of equipment and some short-term in-service support (ISS) elements, the long-term ISS solution will be acquired separately.
· Canada’s ITB Policy applies to the LRPS(L) project. Under this policy, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control is required to provide business activities and investments in the Canadian economy equal to the value of its activities related to the Foreign Military Sale.
Quick Links
- Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada’s Defence – Canada.ca
- United States Foreign Military Sales program and congressional notification processes – Canada.ca
