Canada considers boosting Ukraine's defense with CRV7 air-to-ground unguided rocket donation.

On February 20, 2024, Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair revealed that the government is exploring the possibility of sending CRV7 air-to-ground rockets, initially intended for disposal, to Ukraine. This announcement comes at a time when Ukraine continues to seek innovative ways to strengthen its defense capabilities in the face of a large-scale invasion.
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CRV7 air-to-ground unguided rockets (Picture source: Magellan Aerospace)

Minister Blair emphasized that while the idea of sending these rockets had been considered at the start of the Russian invasion, Ukraine's capacity to use them was then deemed limited. However, the evolving situation on the ground and Ukrainian ingenuity in adopting new technologies, such as the use of drones, have opened new prospects for the use of these munitions.

Minister Blair stated that Canada, in collaboration with Ukraine and its allies, is attempting to ensure that the CRV7 rockets, withdrawn from active service, can be utilized and transported. This urgent initiative reflects Canada's commitment to support Ukraine during these critical times.

The Canadian Armed Forces hold an arsenal of more than 83,000 CRV7 rockets, designed in the 1980s and decommissioned in the early 2000s. These rockets, once among the most advanced air-to-ground munitions, were used by Canada's allies during the war in Afghanistan. Their power and reliability could now benefit Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and defense of its territory.

The CRV7 is an unguided rocket developed by Canada in the 1970s, representing a significant advancement in performance over existing air-to-ground munitions of the time. With a diameter of 70 mm, these rockets are recognized for their supersonic speed, reaching Mach 2.5, which allows them to penetrate armor with increased effectiveness. Their modular design enables the use of various payloads, suitable for a variety of targets, from armored vehicles and fortifications to troop concentrations and ground equipment.

The remarkable aspect of the CRV7 lies in its precision and reliability, attributes partly due to its unique propulsion system and advanced aerodynamics. These characteristics have made the CRV7 one of the most effective air-to-ground rockets of its time, used by several air forces around the world. The potential of these munitions, combined with Ukrainian ingenuity, could thus offer a new strategic advantage in the ongoing conflict.

Since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine, Canada has positioned itself as a leading ally, providing substantial military aid to support the country's defense efforts. This assistance has translated into the delivery of surface-to-air missile systems, including a NASAMS battery with 12 AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles in March 2023, aimed at strengthening Ukraine's air defense capabilities. Concurrently, Canada has contributed to enhancing Ukraine's aerial arsenal with 43 AIM-9 missiles in May 2023 and more than 250 AIM-7 beyond-visual-range missiles, with delivery planned. These shipments of air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles attest to Canada's commitment to providing Ukraine with the necessary means to maintain its aerial sovereignty in the face of aggression.

Beyond air defense aid, Canada has also provided significant support in other critical areas of defense. This includes the delivery of heavy equipment, such as Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks in March 2023, engineering vehicles, and armored personnel carriers. Ukrainian infantry has benefited from 208 Roshel Senators mobility vehicles, delivered in several phases until mid-2023, and a wide assortment of light weapons and ammunition, including C8 carbines, machine guns, and sniper rifles. Canada has also ensured the supply of ammunition for artillery and tank systems and has committed to providing individual protection equipment, such as helmets, fragmentation vests, and night vision equipment, thus underscoring its active role in bolstering Ukraine's defensive capabilities.