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News Release
Canadian Forces Acquire New Night Vision Goggles
NR-05.075 - September 15, 2005
OTTAWA – The Department of National Defence has exercised a $7.66 million option to purchase 706 pairs of night vision goggles and test equipment for the Air Force as part of an existing contract with U.S. based ITT Industries. The new equipment will consist of helmet-mounted night vision goggles and associated equipment for all tactical and search and rescue aircraft.
“As stated in the Defence Policy Statement, the government is dedicated to providing new equipment to our Canadian Forces members, ensuring they can perform operations safely and efficiently,” said Defence Minister Bill Graham. “This new, top-of-the-line night vision equipment is an example of our commitment to the modernization of the Canadian Forces.”
“Night vision equipment is critical to a modern air force,” said General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff. “This new equipment will enhance our aircrew ability to carry out challenging tactical and search and rescue missions, and, most importantly, enhance our ability to save lives.”
In January 2005, the Department of National Defence awarded a $1.15 million contract to ITT industries for 80 pairs of night vision goggles for the CF-18 fleet. Also included in the contract was the option to purchase the additional night vision goggles (AN/AVS 9 Aviation Goggles) and test equipment for the remaining aircraft fleets. This contract, titled the Omnibus Night Vision Capability Project, will ensure commonality of night vision equipment, reduce life cycle cost, simplify training, and reduce procurement time for the Air Force.
It is expected that the Canadian Forces will begin taking delivery of the new night vision goggles in February 2006.
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For further information :
- Omnibus Night Vision Capability Project
[ Backgrounder - 15 September 2005 ]
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