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Canada Enhances Ukraine’s Mobility and Air Training with LAV III APCs and F-16 Simulators.
On February 24, 2025, marking the third anniversary of the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Canada announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. This support includes 25 LAV III armored personnel carriers, four F-16 flight simulators, and a significant supply of ammunition and equipment. The announcement was made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the "Support Ukraine" summit held in Kyiv, attended by several international leaders.
The LAV III has multiple variants tailored to different operational needs, including a command post configuration, an anti-tank version equipped with TOW missiles, and an artillery observer variant (Picture source: Canadian MoD)
During his address, Trudeau emphasized the scope of the aid, which also includes millions of additional ammunition components, drones, and first aid kits. He further confirmed that Canada is distributing the first tranche of a five-billion Canadian dollar fund allocated to Ukraine, financed through revenues from frozen Russian assets. A separate grant aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s energy security is also part of this initiative.
The LAV III armored vehicles, drawn from the Canadian Army’s stockpile, were designed and manufactured by General Dynamics Canada. Based on the Swiss Piranha III chassis, the LAV III also served as the basis for the American Stryker vehicle, widely used by the United States military. Although no longer in production, it remains an effective combat vehicle designed for infantry transport while offering firepower and protection. It is equipped with a 25mm M242 Bushmaster chain gun, also used on the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle, along with a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun and an additional turret-mounted machine gun. The vehicle’s armor protects against small arms fire up to 7.62mm and artillery shell fragments. Its eight-wheeled chassis enables a top speed of 100 km/h and a range of 450 km, ensuring high mobility across various terrains.
The LAV III Kodiak has multiple variants tailored to different operational needs, including a command post configuration, an anti-tank version equipped with TOW missiles, and an artillery observer variant. It features the NAVTAC tactical navigation system, integrating GPS, a digital magnetic compass, and a laser rangefinder for precise positioning. Advanced thermal imaging and third-generation image intensifiers allow for effective deployment in all weather conditions, day or night. Additionally, enhanced mine resistance and an improved fire suppression system increase crew survivability.
Alongside the armored vehicles, Ukraine will receive four F-16 flight simulators, essential for pilot training and proficiency maintenance. These systems will enable Ukrainian pilots to practice realistic combat scenarios and gain operational familiarity with the aircraft before deployment. The delivery of these simulators doubles Canada’s initial commitment of two units. As Ukraine prepares to integrate F-16s into its air force through agreements with its Western allies, these training tools will facilitate the transition and operational readiness of Ukrainian pilots.
The presence of multiple heads of state and government officials in Kyiv on this symbolic date reflects the continued international support for Ukraine. In addition to Justin Trudeau, key European political figures, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, participated in the summit. Leaders from the Baltic states, Spain, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden were also in attendance, reaffirming their commitment to Ukraine.
European military assistance was further reinforced by additional aid commitments. Sweden announced a new support package, including air defense systems valued at approximately 1.2 billion Swedish kronor (about 113 million USD). Finland pledged 4.5 million euros to the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine (PFRU), which aims to support the reconstruction and strengthening of Ukraine’s strategic infrastructure between 2025 and 2027.
With this new initiative, Canada continues its military assistance to Ukraine, following previous deliveries of equipment, financial aid, and training programs. The provision of LAV III armored vehicles and F-16 simulators aligns with this ongoing effort, aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities and supporting its military modernization amid the ongoing conflict.