An Overview of Firearms Employed by the Canadian Army- A Comprehensive Guide
What Guns Do the Canadian Army Use?
The Canadian Army, known for its exceptional military capabilities and contributions to peacekeeping missions worldwide, relies on a diverse array of firearms to fulfill its various roles. From the standard issue service rifles to specialized anti-tank and sniper weapons, the Canadian Army has a well-rounded arsenal that equips its soldiers for a wide range of combat scenarios. In this article, we will explore the key firearms that the Canadian Army uses, highlighting their importance and capabilities.
One of the most prominent firearms in the Canadian Army’s inventory is the C7 GPMG (General Purpose Machine Gun). This weapon is a variant of the American M249 SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) and is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. The C7 is designed for use by dismounted soldiers and is highly versatile, capable of providing suppressing fire, engaging enemy personnel, and destroying light vehicles. Its lightweight design and ease of use make it an ideal choice for close-quarters combat.
Another crucial firearm is the C8 Light Support Weapon, which is a fully automatic version of the C7. The C8 is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO and is designed to provide heavier fire support than the C7. It is often used by dismounted soldiers and is also mounted on various vehicles, such as the LAV III. The C8 is an excellent choice for engaging enemy positions from a distance and for providing suppressive fire.
For the Canadian Army’s snipers, the C15 Sniper Rifle is the weapon of choice. This rifle is a variant of the British L96A1 Sniper Rifle and is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO. The C15 is known for its accuracy, range, and reliability, making it an ideal choice for long-range engagements. Snipers equipped with the C15 are responsible for identifying and neutralizing high-value targets, such as enemy leaders, technicals, and anti-tank teams.
The Canadian Army also utilizes the C2A1 Automatic Rifle, which is a derivative of the Belgian FN FNC. The C2A1 is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO and is designed to provide automatic fire support to dismounted soldiers. Its lightweight design and ease of handling make it a valuable asset in close-quarters combat.
For anti-tank operations, the Canadian Army relies on the C6 Anti-Tank Weapon System. This system is a combination of the C6 Light Anti-Tank Weapon (LAW) and the C6 Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM). The C6 LAW is a disposable anti-tank weapon that uses shaped-charge technology to penetrate enemy armor. The C6 ATGM is a guided missile system that provides increased range and accuracy for anti-tank engagements.
In addition to these primary firearms, the Canadian Army also uses a variety of other weapons, including sidearms, shotguns, and specialized breaching tools. The selection of these weapons ensures that Canadian soldiers are well-equipped to face any challenge they may encounter on the battlefield.
In conclusion, the Canadian Army uses a diverse array of firearms to meet its military needs. From the versatile C7 GPMG to the precise C15 Sniper Rifle, these weapons play a crucial role in ensuring the success of Canadian soldiers in various combat scenarios. As the Canadian Army continues to evolve and adapt to new threats, its arsenal will undoubtedly continue to grow and improve, ensuring that Canadian soldiers remain at the forefront of military excellence.
