GATINEAU, Quebec: The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, the Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, and the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, today announced that the Government of Canada awarded a contract to Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH of Schneizlreuth, Germany, to provide 14 Ship’s Offboard Passive Electronic Countermeasures Systems (ECM) for the Halifax Class Ships.
The ECM System, which is an integral and critical component of the vessels’ anti-missile defence, is made up of shipboard launchers and rounds used to counter radar-guided missiles.
“This government continues to deliver leading-edge technology for the Canadian Forces and concrete results for our economy,” said Minister Paradis.
“The safety and security of our forces is paramount on any operation,” said Minister MacKay. “The replacement of these SHIELD systems will ensure that Canada’s Halifax Class Frigates and their crews have a top-shelf defensive capability to protect themselves, while protecting Canadian interests at home and abroad.”
The five-year contract will provide for the design, manufacturing, documentation, training and engineering support of the ECM System.
The Industrial and Regional Benefit (IRB) Policy applies to this procurement. It requires that the contractor undertake business activities in Canada valued at 100 per cent of the contract value and thereby ensures that federal defence procurements will generate long-term industrial and regional development in Canada.
“I am pleased that through the IRB Policy, every contract dollar awarded is re-invested back into the Canadian economy,” stated Minister Clement, “The contractor has committed to generating high quality and lasting economic activity in the Canadian economy.”
