Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has officially declared General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada (GDLS-Canada), representing the Power Team, as the preferred bidder for the Logistics Vehicle Modernization (LVM) initiative. The Power Team, comprising GDLS-Canada, Marshall Land Systems Canada, Mercedes Benz, Soframe, and Manac, is set to provide a replacement for the existing logistics vehicle fleet of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). These vehicles play a crucial role in transferring resources, personnel, and military assets during both domestic and international operations and training exercises.

“Today’s milestone is an important step forward in this project,” said Canadian Minister of National Defence Bill Blair. “This decision brings the Canadian Army closer to receiving the vehicles that it needs to continue to protect Canadians.”

Under the leadership of GDLS-Canada as the prime integrator, Marshall will manufacture a variety of interchangeable containerized mission modules designed to be mounted onto Mercedes-Benz Zetros trucks. These trucks will serve as the standardized vehicle chassis across all configurations. A contract is expected to be granted in the spring of 2024, contingent upon final government approvals.

“The selection of the Power Team as preferred bidder for LVM marks the start of a new era in our longstanding relationship with the Department of National Defence and our support for the CAF,” said Marshall Canada Executive Vice President Sam Michaud. “As production ramps up at our brand new facility in Moncton, New Brunswick, delivering on LVM will offer some incredible opportunities to invest in hiring and training, while also identifying local supply chain partners for our made-in-Canada offering.”

In October of last year, Marshall Canada inaugurated an 82,000 sq ft facility. This new establishment will be dedicated to producing specialized containers for both the North American market and exports under Marshall’s significant European contracts.

The LVM initiative is projected to generate more than 500 direct job opportunities in eastern Canada by 2028. Production at the Land Systems Moncton facility is anticipated to contribute significantly to the GDP of New Brunswick’s fabricated metal manufacturing sector, with a potential increase of up to 15% by 2026. Additionally, it is expected to drive export revenues, addressing the province’s trade deficit in the sector.