Canada accelerates its efforts to replace US-made M777 howitzers with modern self-propelled alternatives.

As reported by Defence Industry Europe on March 8, 2025, the Canadian government has recently initiated a procurement process for the Indirect Fires Modernisation (IFM) programme to enhance the capabilities of its land forces through the acquisition of new artillery systems. The programme includes the planned acquisition of 80 to 98 self-propelled 155mm howitzers to replace the 33 US-made M777 towed systems currently in service, while the 121 towed 105mm howitzers, including C3 and LG1 Mk II models, will remain in reserve units.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Indirect Fires Modernisation (IFM) program includes the planned acquisition of 80 to 98 self-propelled 155mm howitzers to replace the 33 US-made M777 towed systems currently in service. (Picture source: Canadian Armed Forces)

A request for information has been issued to define preliminary requirements and assess available options for procurement. The request for information process remains open, with a closing date in April 2025. Companies such as Glooscap Defence, Intermat Group SA, M2K Industrial, Tactiql, and Patriot Forge Co. have already expressed interest in participating in the programme through partnerships. The ongoing trade conflict between Canada and the United States raises concerns about its potential impact on Canada's defense sector, particularly regarding the procurement of U.S.-made defense equipment. The heightened tensions may prompt Canada to reassess its defense procurement strategies, possibly seeking to reduce reliance on U.S. defense equipment, such as the M777, and explore alternative partnerships to safeguard its national security interests, especially given Donald Trump's often-expressed desire to make Canada the 51st U.S. state.

In addition to self-propelled howitzers, the Indirect Fires Modernisation (IFM) programme includes plans to procure up to 99 120mm mortars integrated with LAV 6.0 ACSV wheeled armoured vehicles and up to 85 81mm mortars mounted on an unspecified light tactical vehicle. An alternative option under review is the exclusive procurement of 81mm mortars, with the potential acquisition of up to 133 units to replace the 218 older L16 81mm mortars currently in service.

The programme also includes a range of support vehicles, such as ammunition carriers, command vehicles, and reconnaissance platforms. These elements may be procured through separate contracts. Additionally, the scope of the programme covers fire control systems, communication systems, simulators, training infrastructure, ammunition certification, and logistics support to ensure operational readiness and sustainment of new artillery systems.

The Indirect Fires Modernisation (IFM) programme is identified as a priority within the Canadian Army’s broader modernisation efforts. The initiative is currently in the options analysis phase, with assessments focusing on the potential acquisition of a common fleet of medium 155mm 52-calibre self-propelled howitzers or a mixed fleet that includes both these systems and a light self-propelled artillery capability, such as a 120mm mortar system. The evaluation also considers the possible integration of loitering munitions through a separate urgent operational requirement. An initial procurement of up to 20 self-propelled howitzers may be conducted as an interim measure before full project implementation.

The US-made M777 towed howitzer, which has been used by the Canadian Armed Forces in asymmetric conflicts such as the war in Afghanistan, was valued for its mobility and air transportability. However, future operational requirements indicate a need for improved mobility, survivability, and interoperability with allied forces. The IFM programme aligns with evolving requirements that include potential engagements against near-peer adversaries equipped with advanced artillery, drones, and electronic warfare capabilities. The Canadian Army Land Warfare Centre’s Close Engagement document projects a shift towards dispersed, networked force structures, requiring decentralised decision-making and increased battlefield adaptability.

Computerised battlefield simulations have been conducted as part of the IFM programme’s options analysis phase. These simulations, developed using Python with the SimPy package, assessed the operational effectiveness of indirect fire systems, including 81mm and 120mm mortars, M777 lightweight towed howitzers, and rocket artillery. Data collected from workshops with subject matter experts have been used to refine the model, focusing on weapon system specifications, ammunition consumption, and mission success probabilities under different threat scenarios.

While full funding for the IFM programme has not yet been secured, it has been identified as the second-highest procurement priority for the Canadian Army, following the Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) programme. The Chief of the Canadian Army has highlighted the indirect fires capability gap as a critical issue, and efforts are ongoing to finalise funding recommendations. A statement of capability deficiency has been drafted to address operational gaps, particularly in relation to Canada’s commitments under Operation Reassurance.