In a significant milestone for Canadian defense modernization, General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada (GDLS-C) has unveiled its most advanced Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) platform to date during the CANSEC 2025 defense exhibition. The new LAV 6.0 MkII variant, along the new LAV 6.0 Air Defence represents a quantum leap in land combat capabilities for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). This latest evolution underscores Canada’s commitment to enhancing its operational readiness and reinforcing its role within NATO and allied missions. The LAV 6.0 MkII builds upon the legacy of the LAV III, which served as the backbone of Canadian infantry mobility for nearly two decades. With the entire LAV III fleet now replaced by the LAV 6.0 series, this fourth-generation armored personnel carrier solidifies its position as the primary infantry fighting vehicle of the Canadian Army. Featuring a battle-proven Double-V hull design, the LAV 6.0 offers superior protection against ballistic threats and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ensuring crew survivability across diverse combat scenarios.
One of the most striking advancements of the LAV 6.0 MkII lies in its armament suite. At the heart of the vehicle is a stabilized 30mm automatic cannon capable of engaging enemy personnel, light armor, and defensive positions with precision while on the move. Supporting this primary weapon is a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun designed for close-in threat engagement. Mounted atop the turret is a dual-launch system for anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), enabling the LAV 6.0 MkII to neutralize heavily armored targets at extended ranges. However, the true game-changer is the integration of loitering munitions into the vehicle’s mission systems. These aerial systems provide real-time reconnaissance and allow for precision strikes on high-value or time-sensitive targets beyond the line of sight. By incorporating this capability, the LAV 6.0 MkII extends its tactical reach and grants infantry commanders the ability to deliver decisive effects without exposing troops to direct combat.
Capable of reaching speeds up to 100 km/h on roads and fording hard-bottomed water obstacles up to 1.5 meters deep, the LAV 6.0 delivers unmatched tactical mobility. Whether navigating urban landscapes, open fields, or rugged terrains, the vehicle’s adaptable powertrain—a 450-horsepower turbocharged diesel engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission—ensures exceptional agility and reliability under prolonged deployment conditions. The unveiling of the LAV 6.0 MkII reflects Canada’s strategic push to modernize its land combat systems amid evolving global security challenges. As part of the broader effort to replace aging LAV II and LAV III variants, the Canadian Army plans to acquire the LAV 6.0 in two main configurations: a combat-focused variant equipped with a 25mm cannon and an Armoured Combat Support Vehicle (ACSV) tailored for logistics and engineering roles. This highly evolved platform not only enhances domestic security but also strengthens Canada’s interoperability with NATO allies.
The debut of the LAV 6.0 MkII at CANSEC 2025 marks a bold step forward for the Canadian Armed Forces as they seek to maintain a competitive edge in modern warfare. By combining advanced weaponry, state-of-the-art technology, and proven engineering principles, GDLS-C has delivered a platform that embodies the future of armored mobility. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise and adversaries adopt increasingly sophisticated tactics, the LAV 6.0 MkII will play a pivotal role in safeguarding Canadian interests both at home and abroad. For allies and adversaries alike, this development serves as a clear signal of Canada’s resolve to remain a formidable player on the world stage. With its revolutionary capabilities and strategic relevance, the LAV 6.0 MkII stands as a testament to Canada’s unwavering commitment to innovation, interoperability, and operational excellence.
