General Dynamics is to supply the Canadian defence forces with 33 LAV III Infantry Section Carriers.

The contract for the vehicles, awarded by the Canadian Department of National Defence, is worth $46.3m.

Under the contract, General Dynamics will modify 33 existing LAV III chassis to an infantry section carrier configuration and integrate a Remote Weapon Station.

The weapon station, which will be supplied by Rheinmetall Canada, will feature a universal gun cradle capable of mounting 5.56mm, 7.62mm and 12.7mm armaments and a cooled sight system.

The first delivery of LAV IIIs is expected in June 2008.