Blair announces delivery of first ten armoured vehicles promised to Ukraine by summer

Defence Minister Bill Blair has announced that the first ten of 50 Armoured Combat Support Vehicles (ACSVs) promised to Ukraine will be delivered by this summer, with full deployment expected by the fall. These newly manufactured vehicles from General Dynamics Land Systems in London, Ont., were part of a $650 million military support package pledged during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Ottawa last year.

In addition to the ACSVs, 10 Multirole Boats from Zodiac Hurricane Technologies are set to be delivered in July, along with training for Ukrainian operators and spare parts. The delivery of these vehicles comes after a plea from Ukrainian politician Oleksandra Ustinova for more armoured vehicles, even if they are retired or in poor condition.

The Department of National Defence (DND) has revealed that there are surplus armoured vehicles, including LAV II Bisons and Coyote reconnaissance vehicles, that are being retired or demilitarized. Ustinova emphasized the importance of any assistance, stating that Ukrainians are willing to make use of any vehicles to protect their soldiers.

As warnings of a potential Russian offensive in Ukraine grow louder, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has highlighted the importance of timely assistance. Delays in Western aid have allowed Russia to make incremental gains along the frontline over the winter.

To further support Ukraine, Canada is donating $3 million for the production of drones by Ukraine’s domestic defence industry and contributing an additional $13 million for the purchase and delivery of artillery rounds. Additionally, Canada will send 100 SkyRanger drones manufactured by Teledyne FLIR to aid in Ukraine’s defense efforts.