Canada’s HIMARS deal with Lockheed Martin deepens industrial partnership for a more secure, interoperable future

Canada will buy 26 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) from Lockheed Martin, along with associated munitions and a 10-year industrial and economic plan intended to strengthen a secure North American defence industrial base.

HIMARS is described as a highly mobile, combat-proven launcher for precision munitions capable of striking long-range targets. The system can be transported by C-130 and C-17 aircraft, is rapidly deployable, and interoperable with NATO allies, using NATO standard munitions such as Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rounds and the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM).

For Canada, the acquisition is pitched as offering combat-proven precision across multiple ranges, seamless integration into NATO and coalition operations, and a modernization path that includes extended-range munitions and digital upgrades. The package also includes industrial partnership opportunities intended to support domestic sustainment and sovereignty.

The procurement aligns with Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy and leverages the Industrial and Technological Benefits policy to match 100% of the contract value with economic benefits for Canada’s defence industrial base. Over the next decade, Lockheed Martin plans to invest in Canadian small and medium-sized businesses, research entities, and Indigenous partners on projects that include advanced helicopter electro‑optics, clean‑energy dual‑use technology, a self‑contained UAV manufacturing system, and Arctic‑focused defence and commercial infrastructure. The plan is framed as part of a broader effort to cultivate local talent and accelerate the transfer of advanced technical knowledge.

“HIMARS provides Canada with a reliable, adaptable and forward-looking solution for long-range precision fires,” said Vice President of Lockheed Martin Tactical Missiles Gaylia Campbell. “Lockheed Martin stands ready to support the Canadian Armed Forces in achieving both immediate operational readiness and long-term strategic flexibility – ensuring that Canada can meet today’s threats while preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.”

“With over 85 years of presence and partnership in Canada, we are dedicated to strengthening a sovereign Canadian defence industry that drives meaningful economic impact,” said Kristen Leroux, vice president and regional executive for Canada and Latin America at Lockheed Martin. “The investments we’ll make under this industrial plan will champion the growth of small-to-medium enterprises and deliver cutting-edge Canadian technology to the aerospace and defence industry.”

Lockheed Martin says it continues to meet or exceed delivery timelines for HIMARS launchers and is working with the U.S. Army and international partners to accelerate shipments to help Canada achieve initial operating capability. The company also notes that HIMARS and the M270 remain the only platforms capable of launching its next‑generation munitions, including Extended Range GMLRS and PrSM.

PrSM recently saw combat use during Operation Epic Fury, and export-ready certification is underway alongside a framework agreement intended to quadruple production capacity. With a range exceeding 500 kilometers, the missile is expected to be available to allied forces soon.

Lockheed Martin Canada, headquartered in Ottawa, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corporation and employs about 1,000 people in roles spanning software engineering, systems integration, manufacturing, training, and sustainment.