The Government of Canada has announced plans to buy 3,626 new C6A1 FLEX General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG) from Colt Canada. The purchase, which was announced by Defence Minister Harjit S. Sajjan on January 24, 2020, will provide the Canadian Armed Forces with “modern and reliable weapon to support training and operations,” according to a news release.
These GPMGs will replace the current set of C6 machine guns that were purchased over three decades ago. The new procurement will fill the shortage of C6s that were removed from service due to wear and tear, and others that are reaching the end of service life.
The $96.97 million acquisition will supplement the 1,148 machine guns that were acquired in 2017, which featured a durable polymer buttstock instead of the current wooden style. According to the release, these weapons allow soldiers to attach pointing devices and optical sighting systems to help increase operational and tactical effectiveness. The new purchase also includes a cleaning and repair kit, spare parts, and sling to carry the weapon.
“This purchase will provide the necessary tools to the women and men who serve, so they can do the important work we ask of them,” said Minister Sajjan.
The first set of new GPMGs is expected to be delivered to the CAF by late 2020, with final delivery by 2023.