On September 17, 2024, KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG sealed a major agreement with the Canadian government for the maintenance of the Leopard 2 main battle tanks and their derivatives, marking a renewed commitment to the Canadian Armed Forces. This comprehensive contract, orchestrated by Public Services and Procurement Canada on behalf of the Department of National Defence, covers the management, maintenance, and technical support of the vehicles until March 2031, with an option to extend for an additional five years. The total contract value amounts to $2 billion, highlighting the scale and importance of this commitment.
As part of the strategic initiative “Strong, Secure, Engaged,” which aims to strengthen Canada’s defense, particularly in the Arctic, a $2 billion contract has been awarded for an initial period of six years and seven months, with the possibility of four extensions that could extend support until March 2036. This contract includes not only standard maintenance services but also the establishment of a regional maintenance center near Edmonton, Alberta. This measure is in line with Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, aiming to stimulate the local economy by maintaining 295 jobs annually and contributing $32.5 million annually to the Canadian GDP throughout the duration of the contract.