Colt Canada Secures $307 Million Contract for New Assault Rifles for Canadian Armed Forces

Ottawa has awarded a $307-million contract to Colt Canada to manufacture over 65,000 new assault rifles for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), marking a significant step in modernizing the military’s weaponry. The procurement, announced on Thursday, March 14, 2026, is part of the first wave of procurements delegated to Canada’s new Defence Investment Agency (DIA).

Modernizing the CAF’s Arsenal

The contract will see Colt Canada initially produce 30,000 rifles over three years, with deliveries beginning in 2027. These rifles will replace the CAF’s aging C7/C8 rifles, which have been in service for over 35 years National Post. The overall procurement aims for up to 65,402 weapons The Globe and Mail.

Streamlined Procurement Process

The procurement process has been expedited through the DIA, established in October 2025 to streamline defence acquisitions. Secretary of State for Defence Procurement Stephen Fuhr stated that the new process will deliver the rifles two years earlier than originally anticipated The Globe and Mail. Fuhr emphasized the importance of speed, noting that delays translate to increased costs.

Canadian Modular Assault Rifle (CMAR) Project

Colt Canada will manufacture the Canadian Modular Assault Rifle (CMAR), designed for broad use across the Forces, including personnel protection and deterrence The Globe and Mail. An additional 35,000 rifles will be acquired in four years, with costs beyond the initial $307-million investment National Post.

Colt CZ Group and Canadian Investment

Colt Canada is part of the Colt CZ group, a Czech-based company with production facilities in several countries, including the Czech Republic, the USA, Sweden, Switzerland and Hungary The Globe and Mail. The contract underscores the government’s commitment to “buying Canadian” and fostering domestic investment National Post.

Fuhr added that the C7/C8 rifles were “well past its expiration date” and should have been replaced several years ago National Post.