In a striking example of Canada's sluggish military procurement, Denmark is already equipping its soldiers with a state-of-the-art Canadian-made assault rifle, while Canadian troops have yet to receive a single unit.
Denmark's Rapid Acquisition
The C8 Modular Rail Rifle, also known as the Gevaer M/25 in Danish service, is manufactured by Colt Canada in Kitchener, Ontario. In August 2024, the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition announced a contract for 26,000 rifles, later expanded to 50,000 in February, with deliveries to be completed by 2027. By January 2025, the rifles were already in Danish hands, with photos showing crates arriving from Canada.
Canada's Slower Pace
In contrast, Canada only signed its contract for the C8 on March 19, 2025, through the newly formed Defence Investment Agency. The initial commitment is for 10,000 rifles per year over three years, totaling 30,000, with an eventual goal of 65,402. This means Denmark, with about 9,000 active soldiers, will procure 50,000 rifles in roughly 18 months, while Canada, with 22,500 active personnel, will take at least three years for its first tranche.
Irony on the Baltic Front
Canadian troops serving alongside Danish forces in the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia may see their future rifle in the hands of Danish allies first. This situation underscores long-standing issues with Canadian defence procurement, which has been criticized as too slow and complex.
Historical Context
The glacial pace is reminiscent of the 13-year process to replace the Browning Hi-Power pistol, which had been in service since World War II. The worn-out pistols frequently jammed, forcing the military to create an interim program. In comparison, the British Army replaced its Browning pistols with Glocks in just two years.
Prime Minister Carney's government has promised to speed up procurement, but the C8 case shows challenges remain. The Canadian military will now watch as Danish troops wield a superior rifle made in Canada, while Canadian soldiers wait.
