Canada has contracted Magellan Aerospace to manufacture the M72 Light Anti-Tank Weapon (LAW), expanding domestic production of a key infantry weapon for the Canadian Armed Forces.
The agreement aims to strengthen Canada’s sovereign defense industrial base by localizing the man-portable weapon’s assembly, improving supply chain security and ensuring a reliable domestic source of critical munitions.
The M72 LAW is one of the world’s most widely used and combat-proven anti-tank weapons.
Producing it in Canada, according to the company, would help Ottawa’s broader strategy to increase defense manufacturing capacity while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Magellan added that the agreement also aligns with the government’s effort to reinforce a North American, NATO-compatible defense industrial base.
The deal forms part of the Munitions Supply Program, which supports the acquisition and production of modern weaponry, ammunition, and related systems for Canadian warfighters through long-term partnerships with industry.
“This agreement represents a milestone for Magellan Aerospace and for Canada’s defence objectives,” said Haydn Martin, vice president of business development, marketing, and contracts at Magellan Aerospace.
“Together with the Government of Canada, we are ensuring a sovereign manufacturing capability that will strengthen Canada’s national security, and maintain high-value employment, and provide the Canadian Armed Forces with a secure, resilient domestic source of critical defence equipment.
About the M72 LAW System
M72 LAW is a shoulder-fired capability that can penetrate armored vehicle hulls.
Since its inception in the 1960s, the weapon has been used by numerous forces, including troops deployed in the Ukrainian-Russian war and the Gaza conflict.
The 66mm caliber system measures 881 millimeters (35 inches) long, weighs up to 4 kilograms (9 pounds) depending on configuration, and uses point-initiated or base-detonated shells.
The launcher has a maximum muzzle velocity of 200 meters (656 feet) per second and a firing range of approximately 220 meters (722 feet)
