Canada NewsWire Portfolio E-Mail

Transmitted by Canada NewsWire on : July 14, 2004 10:38

Additional G Wagons to be Purchased

OTTAWA, July 14 /CNW Telbec/ - The Department of National Defence has exercised an $81-million option to purchase an additional 357 Mercedes-Benz Gelaendewagen (G Wagon) vehicles and 20 Armour Protection System (APS) kits for the Canadian Forces.

"The versatile G Wagon has been an important element in soldiers being able to conduct operations in Operation ATHENA and in helping our soldiers gain the trust and respect of the people of Afghanistan," said General Ray Henault, Chief of the Defence Staff. "The G Wagon will contribute to the Land Force's requirement to conduct sustained, effective combat and support operations, and meet the peacetime training requirement."

The G Wagon light utility vehicles are an integral component of a modern, combat-capable force. Last year, the Department of National Defence awarded a $130 million contract to Mercedes-Benz Canada for 802 vehicles and 150 Armour Protection Systems. Included in the original contract was an option to purchase additional vehicles, which the department has exercised, bringing the total number of G Wagons to 1159.

The additional 357 vehicles will replace the capabilities currently provided by the Cougar direct fire support vehicles, and the Iltis light utility vehicles. The new vehicles, which will be delivered to Reserve Armour units and Regular Force Infantry Reconnaissance Platoons across Canada, will result in a potential cost savings of approximately $3.2 million annually.

-30-

/For further information: (613) 996-2353/54, After hours: (613) 792-2973, http://www.dnd.ca/