Leonardo to Equip the Royal Canadian Navy with Cutting-Edge Systems for Their Next-Gen Surface Combatants

Leonardo is set to provide Lockheed Martin Canada with four OTO 127/64 LightWeight (LW) Vulcano naval artillery systems, including the Automatic Ammunition Handling System (AAHS) as an optional feature, for the new Canadian Surface Combatants (CSC), which will be constructed by Irving Shipbuilding Inc. at the Halifax shipyard located in Nova Scotia. The initial three units will be affixed to the newly constructed naval vessels, while the fourth will serve training purposes. The objective of the CSC initiative is to manufacture 15 sophisticated, multi-role combat ships as part of the overarching National Shipbuilding Strategy, a long-term endeavor aimed at revitalizing the entire Canadian fleet.

Already selected by six naval forces over the last decade, the OTO 127/64 LW Vulcano ranks as the top-performing gun system available, featuring a highly adaptable architecture that allows for installation on various platforms. Its cutting-edge technology and complete digital integration ensure consistent support for operators and ongoing assistance to the onboard Combat Management System (CMS) through the calculation of potential firing solutions during mission preparations.

This system is unique globally, as it is seamlessly integrated with the Vulcano 127mm ammunition, available in both the Guided Long Range (GLR) and the Ballistic Extended Range (BER) variations. Additionally, Leonardo’s 4AP fuze for standard ammunition guarantees significant operational versatility based on its mission-specific programmability. The OTO 127/64 LW Vulcano operates proficiently even in the absence of a crew, thanks to Leonardo’s AAHS solution, which facilitates automatic gun reloading by managing both Vulcano long-range precision strikes and conventional munitions simultaneously.

Leonardo’s interests and prospects in Canada encompass naval systems, helicopters, airport solutions, and logistics. A reliable Canadian partner for over 50 years, with more than 400 employees in the nation, the Company is a leading source of products, capabilities, and expertise in the defense sector through innovative technologies and comprehensive services. Leonardo is fervently dedicated to the long-term prosperity of Canada’s premier defense industry, ensuring ongoing support and collaboration with indigenous enterprises. Operating in Ontario and Nova Scotia, Leonardo DRS has been a trusted supplier of advanced naval communications, surveillance, and power conversion systems to the Royal Canadian Navy for more than 30 years.

This CSC contract is expected to yield a beneficial effect on the Canadian defense sector and its supply chain through Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy. Plans are in place for Leonardo DRS’ Ottawa facility to engage in the production of specific system components, contributing to direct ITB obligations. Leonardo will also focus on supporting and investing in the development of Canadian small and medium-sized local businesses, collaborating with potential partner firms in Ontario and the Atlantic regions. Furthermore, Leonardo aims to establish partnerships with academic institutions.

The ambition to create value through the integration of sustainability principles is central to Be Tomorrow-Leonardo 2030; the Company’s long-term strategy designed to uncover new business prospects while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN) by harnessing technological innovation and core competencies.