New Canadian Sniper Rifle..

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Forces award Canadian sniper rifle contract
OTTAWA, May 26 /CNW Telbec/ - The Department of National Defence has
awarded PGW Defence Technologies Inc. a $4.5-million contract for the
provision of sniper rifles. The Winnipeg-based company will provide the
weapons system, training package, ammunition, spare parts and maintenance
support as part of the contract, signed May 13, 2005.
"As stated in the new Defence Policy, the government is committed to
providing new equipment to the Canadian Forces, assuring they can operate
effectively in today's challenging security environment," said Defence
Minister Bill Graham. "This contract is an example of how we are modernizing
our equipment with the assistance of Canadian expertise."
"This weapons system, one of the most accurate sniper rifles in the
world, is a part of our commitment to improving Canadian Forces capabilities
and equipment," said General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff.
This medium range sniper weapon is 8.6mm (.338 calibre) and has a range
of 1500m - almost twice that of the C3A1 rifle it is replacing. The new system
includes the rifle, magazines, telescopic sight, stand, and carrying case.
Canadian Forces snipers from across the country trialed the rifle at
Canadian Forces Base Gagetown and were impressed with its performance. It was
also tested at the Canadian Forces Munitions Experimental Test Centre in
Valcartier, Que.
The Canadian Forces will begin taking delivery of this small arms system
in August 2005. It will be used by Regular Force infantry units across the
Army, in both training and operations.



For further information: (613) 996-2353/54, After hours: (613) 792-2973,
World Wide Web: http://www.forces.gc.ca