The current TOW ITAS is obsolete and ineffective to be deployed into Operation REASSURANCE in Latvia. A modern soldier-portable missile system capable of defeating any Main Battle Tank (MBT) faced in operations was deemed essential for NATO credibility and mission success.

The PAXM project will procure a minimum of 20 firing posts, 160 missiles, load carriage equipment and 6 Combat Training Simulators as well as ancillary equipment, spare parts, and training.

Funding Range: $50 million to $99 million

Canada acquiring air defence capabilities for Canadian Armed Forces members deployed with NATO in Latvia. Canada is investing $227.5 million in an Air Defence capability for Canadian Armed Forces members in Latvia. Canada has finalized contracts with Saab Canada Inc. to procure the RBS 70 NG short-range Air Defence System, which will provide tactical air defence protection to Canadian troops in Latvia. This capability will enable Canadian troops to defend themselves against fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters within its range, close air support aircraft.

The order includes all necessary equipment to operate the RBS 70 NG, including firing units, missiles, transport vehicles, training and support. Following a competitive procurement process, Saab’s offer was chosen to meet the urgent operational requirement for Canada’s Soldier Portable Air Defence System Program. Through this program, Saab will provide long term air defence support to the Canadian Armed Forces, with a specific focus on their Enhanced Forward Presence in Latvia. As part of its offer, Saab has committed to creating Canadian content through its local office and Canada-based partners and suppliers.    

RBS 70 NG is a short-range air defence system manufactured by Saab. It is characterised by its unjammable laser-beam guidance and auto-tracking technology. Saab has RBS 70 NG customers globally, including Brazil, the Czech Republic and Latvia.