More LAV III upgrades ordered by Canada

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LONDON, Ontario, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- A General Dynamics Canadian subsidiary is to upgrade 66 additional light armored vehicles for the country's military under a $133.2 contract modification.

"Helping to protect the men and women of the Canadian forces is a privileged role and we understand our responsibility and what is at stake," said Danny Deep, vice president of General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada. "The upgraded LAV III will provide our Canadian soldiers with one of the most advanced and modern vehicles of this type in the world.

"It will also provide much-needed job stability throughout Canada's high-value defense sector."

The LAV by General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada is an 8x8 vehicle based on the Swiss MOWAG Piranha IIIH. It is the Canadian army's main armored infantry vehicle.

Under a contract awarded late last year and worth about $1 billion, General Dynamics was to upgrade 550 LAV IIIs.

Upgrades include introduction of double-V-hull technology; energy-attenuating seats; a more powerful engine, driveline and suspension; larger hatches; an improved fire control system; thermal, day and low-light sights; and data displays.