Mishall RehmanNew “cutting edge, multi-calibre, bolt-action” sniper rifles are on their way to the Canadian Army, according to an announcement made by Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence, on June 10, 2022.
According to the announcement, the Army will receive 229 new sniper rifles.
“Making sure that the Canadian Armed Forces are properly equipped is always a top priority. Through the Sniper System project, we are procuring cutting edge gear for the Canadian Army and ensuring that their members are well resourced. The delivery of the new C21 sniper rifles is the last major piece of this project aimed at modernizing our sniper teams and adding to the effectiveness and readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces,” said Anand.
The contract to procure the rifles was awarded to Stoeger Canada and will include associated accessories such as suppressors and cleaning/maintenance kits. The contract is worth $2.6 million and is part of a larger contract to deliver new weapon systems.
Sniper Rifles
According to a Department of National Defence (DND) press release, sniper rifles “provide accurate direct fire on targets beyond the capacities of most small arms such as the C7 rifle.”
The rifle will replace the current C14 and C3A1 sniper rifles and provide Canadian Army snipers with a next-generation weapon with a proven effective range of 1200 metres.
DND claims the new rifles should be delivered by the end of this year.
“These new weapons are part of a wider project to equip sniper teams with new clothing, equipment, and weapons to improve our soldiers’ ability to operate effectively in various environments and under a range of conditions,” reads the press release.
The new sniper has several improved features, including:
- New sniper magazine will hold between 8 and 10 rounds depending on calibre and include both regular and armor-piercing rounds.
- Has a proven effective range of 1200 metres, and is very capable beyond that distance.
Multi-calibre (7.62x51mm and .338 Lapua Magnum), - Lighter, with a 60 per cent longer barrel life,
- Adjustable, with a folding stock to make it easier to transport and to accommodate various user types,
- Adaptable for in-line night vision devices to increase operational effectiveness,
- Fully interchangeable with a design that allows whole fleet management and faster/easier repairs with simple part replacement.
Canada committed to modernizing
“The Government of Canada is committed to modernizing the Canadian Armed Forces so that our members have the tools they need to serve our country. This sniper rifle procurement is an example of how we are meeting the needs of the Canadian Armed Forces while ensuring the best value for Canadians,” said Filomena Tassi, minister of public services and procurement.
