Upholding Defense Commitments: The Stalled Delivery of NASAMS to Ukraine – Canada’s Proposal to Transfer CRV7 Missiles to Ukraine

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In a critical period marked by geopolitical tensions and the urgent need for advanced military support in Eastern Europe, the commitment of Canada to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities has hit a significant snag. Announced with a pledge of support amounting to $406 million for a state-of-the-art surface-to-air missile defense system, known as NASAMS (National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System), the promise made by Ottawa on January 10, 2023, remains unfulfilled nearly a year later. This delay has not only raised questions about the logistics and political will behind international military aid but also highlighted the complexities of international defense procurement and cooperation.

The arrangement, designed to streamline the delivery process by having Canada pay the United States, which in turn would enter into a foreign military sales agreement with Ukraine, was intended to bypass the bureaucratic hurdles often associated with the transfer of American military technology abroad. However, despite Canada’s financial commitment in March 2023, the path to delivery has been fraught with uncertainties and a lack of clear timelines.

Global Shield: The Strategic Expansion and Impact of NASAMS in Modern Air Defense

An AIM-9X Block II missile – souce Wikipedia

The NASAMS (Norwegian Advanced Surface to Air Missile System) epitomizes the forefront of air defense technology, embodying a collaborative triumph between Norway’s Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and the United States’ Raytheon. Since its introduction in Norway in 2015, NASAMS has not only bolstered the defensive capabilities of NATO and EU members but has also emerged as a global asset in modern warfare, with its deployment stretching from the fjords of Norway to the diverse terrains of Spain, the United States, the Netherlands, Finland, and beyond.

The system’s versatility is one of its most defining features. NASAMS utilizes the formidable Raytheon AMRAAM missile, yet its operational prowess extends to managing an array of guns and short to medium-range missiles such as the L-70 guns, RBS 70, and HAWK. Its capacity for integration with directed-energy weapons (DEWs) and longer-range systems like the Patriot missile underscores a multi-layered defense strategy, capable of neutralizing threats from aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

As of 2018, NASAMS boasted nine official operators, a testament to its efficacy and reliability in safeguarding high-value assets and population centers against air-to-surface threats. The system’s adoption by countries like Oman, Lithuania, and Indonesia, alongside the command and control solutions provided to Poland, Greece, Sweden, and Turkey, further illustrates its strategic value on the global stage.

The system has seen significant transactions and interest on the international defense market. Notable milestones include the U.S. State Department’s approval of a Foreign Military Sale to Australia in March 2019, aimed at supporting Australia’s acquisition of NASAMS through the sale of AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) for an estimated cost of $240.5 million. In a similar vein, India’s expression of interest in 2019 for the NASAMS-II, followed by the U.S. State Department’s approval of a potential sale to India in February 2020, underscores the system’s appeal in enhancing air defense capabilities.

AIM-120 AMRAAM – Royal Netherlands Army air defense system NASAMS on the open day at Gilze-Rijen AB, June 20, 2014. – source wikipedia

Hungary’s confirmation in November 2020 of acquiring NASAMS for $1 billion, along with the U.S. Department of Defense’s contract in August 2022 for the procurement of NASAMS for Ukraine, highlights the strategic importance of NASAMS in the contemporary security landscape. The delivery of NASAMS to Ukraine in 2022 and the ongoing support from countries like Canada and Norway, through both direct deliveries and financial procurement for Ukraine, emphasizes the international community’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense needs amidst ongoing conflicts.

The evolution of NASAMS from its original variant to the more advanced NASAMS 2 and NASAMS 3 versions showcases a continuous effort to enhance its capabilities. NASAMS 2 introduced the use of Link 16, improving ground radar functionalities, while NASAMS 3, delivered to the Norwegian Air Force in 2019, featured an updated Fire Distribution Center station with ergonomic controls and advanced display technology. The capacity to launch a wider range of missiles, including the AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II and AMRAAM-ER, from the redesigned Mk 2 canister launcher, represents a significant leap in air defense, ensuring that NASAMS remains at the cutting edge of missile system technology.

The redesigned Mk II launcher and other components of NASAMS 3 delivered to the HunAF in 2023 – source Wikipedia

The deployment and continued development of NASAMS reflect an evolving landscape of global defense needs, where air superiority and the protection of sovereign airspace have become paramount. Through strategic international partnerships and advancements in missile defense technology, NASAMS stands as a bulwark against aerial threats, safeguarding nations and their citizens in an increasingly uncertain world.

The importance of NASAMS for Ukraine

The importance of NASAMS for Ukraine cannot be overstated. In a conflict landscape increasingly dominated by aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles, the medium-range missile systems are deemed crucial for defending Ukrainian territory against Russian bombardment. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been vocal about the necessity of these air defense systems, urging global leaders early in the year to expedite their delivery. His appeals reflect a broader strategy to strengthen Ukraine’s defensive posture amid ongoing hostilities.

However, a discrepancy has emerged between the political assurances and the practical execution of this defense pact. While one of the two companies involved in manufacturing NASAMS, Raytheon, is reported to have a contract with the U.S. government for the system, its Norwegian partner, Kongsberg, has indicated the absence of a contract for the Canadian donation. This discrepancy underscores the challenges inherent in coordinating defense procurement across multiple national and corporate entities.

Moreover, the U.S. Defense Department’s contract with Raytheon, valued at US$1.2 billion for NASAMS intended for Ukraine, specifies a completion date in November 2025, suggesting a protracted timeline that may not align with the urgent needs expressed by Ukrainian officials. The lack of public updates and concrete timelines has fueled uncertainty about when the promised air defense capability will materialize on the Ukrainian battlefield.

This situation is further complicated by the procedural intricacies of foreign military sales, which involve scrutiny by the U.S. Congress and can be subject to delays or holds. While the Biden administration has previously expedited military aid through emergency declarations, such measures have not been applied to this case.

Amidst these developments, the call for additional support has resonated within Canadian political circles. Opposition leaders have urged the Canadian government to consider donating surplus military assets, such as the CRV7 rockets, to Ukraine. This proposition, aimed at providing immediate aid without the logistical and procedural delays of new procurement contracts, reflects a growing sentiment that more direct action is necessary to support Ukraine’s defense.

Canada’s Proposal to Transfer CRV7 Missiles to Ukraine: A Strategic Solution

In a significant political move emanating from Ottawa, a proposal has surfaced that aims to address two pressing issues. Canada has been grappling with the storage of a substantial cache of decommissioned CRV7 air-to-surface missiles since the 1980s, numbering a staggering 83,300 units. These relics, though out of service since 2000, impose substantial disposal and maintenance costs on Canadian taxpayers. In response, Pierre Poilievre, the leader of Canada’s opposition Conservative Party, has suggested transferring these missiles to Ukraine.

If the Trudeau administration gives serious consideration to this proposal, Ukraine could potentially receive 8,000 operational CRV7 missiles, with their warheads still intact. Moreover, the remaining 75,300 spare parts could be provided to Ukraine, potentially facilitating missile repairs and enhancing their utility.

A Two-in-One Solution:

This proposal presents a “two-in-one” solution that is both strategic and judicious. Firstly, it bolsters Ukraine’s military capabilities with a substantial missile inventory. Secondly, it relieves Canadian taxpayers from the financial burden of missile disposal. Canada has been an active supporter of Ukraine since the onset of the armed conflict, and this proposal aligns with its commitment to aiding the Ukrainian regime.

It’s worth noting that Canada boasts a significant Ukrainian diaspora, including descendants of those who fled Ukraine during the aftermath of Nazi Germany’s collapse in the 1940s and 1950s. The proposal gains further context when considering the delay in Canada shipping NASAMS anti-aircraft missile systems to Ukraine due to an unresolved agreement with the US. Ukrainian nationalists with a strong presence in Canada are advocating for expedited military aid to Kyiv.

About CRV7:

The CRV7, or Canadian Rocket Vehicle 7, is a distinguished air-to-surface missile produced by Bristol Aerospace in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It is favored by the Royal Canadian Air Force and adopted by military forces worldwide.

Key Features of CRV7:

  • Dimensions: The CRV7 boasts a compact 2.75-inch diameter and extends to a manageable 6.6 feet in length. Despite an unloaded weight of 32 pounds, it can weigh approximately 45 pounds when equipped with a warhead and propellant.
  • Versatility: The CRV7’s adaptability is remarkable. It features different warhead options tailored to specific targets, including high-explosive, fragmentation, and shaped-charge warheads.
  • Engine and Range: Powered by a reliable solid-fuel rocket motor, the CRV7 reaches speeds exceeding Mach 2, making it one of the fastest air-to-surface missiles available. It can engage targets up to 8 kilometers away, with an effective range of approximately 4 kilometers.
  • Compatible Aircraft: Originally designed for the CF-104 Starfighter, the CRV7 can be deployed from various aircraft, including the CF-18 Hornet, CH-146 Griffon helicopter, British Harrier GR.7, and the American A-10 Thunderbolt II.

Integration Challenges:

While integrating the CRV7 with Western aircraft is possible, adapting it to Soviet fighter jets like the Su-25, Su-27, and MiG-29 presents formidable challenges. This process entails:

  • Compatibility Analysis: Detailed examination of technical specifications to ensure physical connection to the aircraft’s hardpoints.
  • System Modification: Adapting the aircraft’s weapon control system for CRV7 deployment, possibly requiring software reprogramming.
  • Testing and Analysis: Rigorous testing to certify accurate aiming and launching, assessing aerodynamic impacts, and conducting wind tunnel tests and test flights.

The integration process may necessitate collaboration between the Canadian and Ukrainian governments, involvement from CRV7 and aircraft manufacturers, and navigation of legal and political hurdles due to differing military alliances and export control laws.

F-16 Compatibility:

The F-16, an upcoming addition to Ukraine’s air force, offers a promising platform for CRV7 integration. With the right modifications, this versatile missile could be adapted for use with the F-16, known for its multirole capabilities.


TABLE 1 – The CRV7 Rocket Weapon System: Unrivaled Precision and Performance

In the ever-evolving landscape of military weaponry, the CRV7 Rocket Weapon System (RWS) has emerged as a leading 2.75″ (70 mm) unguided rocket weapon system. With its longer range, lightning-fast time to target, and unparalleled accuracy, the CRV7 has become the preferred choice for both fixed-wing and rotary-wing users across 13 countries worldwide. This article delves into the key performance advantages of the CRV7 system, its unique features, and its compatibility with various platforms.

Superior Accuracy

One of the standout features of the CRV7 RWS is its exceptional accuracy, setting it apart from competing systems. The CRV7 Cl 7 rocket motor was meticulously designed to thrive in the turbulent operating environment of a helicopter, ensuring precise targeting. The rocket’s velocity upon launch exceeds that of competing rocket motors by over 20%, and its spin rate is carefully optimized throughout its flight path to maintain dynamic stability and accuracy.

This heightened accuracy was vividly demonstrated during Apache helicopter firings, where the CRV7 Cl 7 showcased a remarkable 40% improvement compared to rival systems. Ground launch trials further corroborated these findings, with a ripple of just three CRV7 Cl 7 rockets proving more effective than a ripple of seven rockets from a competing system. This translates to not only faster target acquisition but also significantly enhanced hit probability.

Fastest to the Target

In a combat scenario, speed can be the difference between success and failure. The CRV7 RWS boasts a rapid time to target, making it ideal for missions that require quick response times. Equipped with a 10 lb warhead and a C17 rocket motor, the CRV7 rockets can reach a range of 9,000 ft (2,742 m) at least two seconds faster than rival rocket motors. This reduced time to target is invaluable for helicopter crews engaged in defense suppression roles.

Furthermore, the high impulse generated by the CRV7 Cl 7 rocket motor provides superior kinetic energy, enhancing the effectiveness of penetrator warheads against armored targets. The Cl 7 rocket motor was meticulously crafted to cater to both helicopter and ground launches, with its motor burnout range aligning with competing systems. Its increased velocity, approximately 36% greater than other motors, extends the rocket’s maximum range by at least an additional two kilometers, contingent on warhead flight characteristics.

Safest to Use

The CRV7 RWS prioritizes safety in its design and operation. Its composite propellant and Cl 7 motor enable storage and operation across a wide range of climatic conditions, from arctic cold to desert heat (-54° to +71° C). Moreover, the CRV7 motors adhere closely to Insensitive Munitions (IM) criteria, as outlined in MIL-STD-2105.

The Head End Permanent Igniter (HEPI) featured in CRV7 rockets includes an integrated RF filter, providing crucial protection against Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance (HERO) and Electrostatic Discharge (ESD). By retaining the HEPI igniter inside the motor’s head end throughout the flight, the CRV7 system minimizes the risk of ejecta from the motors and potential damage to the system.

Components of the CRV7 Rocket Weapon System

The CRV7 system comprises several integral components:

  • Cl 7 (RLU-5004/B) Rocket Motor: Designed for optimum performance in rotary wing aircraft, this motor boasts a typical ignition time of 15 milliseconds and a typical action time of 0.93 seconds. Its use of non-aluminized propellant results in reduced smoke and thermal signatures.
  • Warheads: The CRV7 system offers various warhead options, including the WTU-5001/B Practice, WTU-5001A/B Hardened Rod Practice, General Purpose Flechette, RA-79 MOD Al High Explosive Incendiary Semi-Armor Piercing, M151 High Explosive Point Detonating, and M257/M278 Illumination warheads, each tailored to specific mission requirements.
  • Launchers: The M260 (7 Tube) and M261 (19 Tube) Light Weight Launchers significantly enhance system capabilities while reducing weight and maneuverability issues. These aluminum launchers are compatible with remote set fuzes and Cl 7, MK66, and MK40 rocket motors.
  • Accessories: The CRV7 system is supported by essential accessories, such as the Rocket Protection Device (RPO), designed to protect the launcher, improve aerodynamics, and safeguard warheads with remote set fuzes.

Compatibility with Rotary Wing Platforms

The versatility of the CRV7 RWS extends to a wide array of rotary wing platforms, making it a versatile choice for various military applications. These platforms include the Apache AH-64D and AH-64A, WAH-64, CHl 36 Kiowa (OH-58A), UH-1H, Super Lynx 300, and Rooivalk helicopters.


In conclusion, Canada’s proposal to transfer CRV7 missiles to Ukraine presents a multifaceted solution that not only strengthens Ukraine’s military but also alleviates the financial burden on Canadian taxpayers. The potential integration of these missiles with a variety of aircraft, including the F-16, holds promise for enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities. However, navigating the intricacies of integration remains a complex task that requires careful consideration and collaboration between nations and manufacturers.

The stalled delivery of NASAMS to Ukraine exemplifies the complexities of international defense cooperation, where strategic objectives often encounter the realities of bureaucratic processes, contractual negotiations, and intergovernmental diplomacy. As Ukraine continues to seek enhanced air defense capabilities to safeguard its sovereignty, the international community’s ability to fulfill its commitments remains under scrutiny. The resolution of these challenges will not only have implications for the conflict in Eastern Europe but also for the broader principles of international solidarity and support in times of crisis.


Appendix 1 – Orders and deliveries

  • The NASAMS with AIM-120 AMRAAMs achieved initial operational capability with the RNoAF in 1994. A total of four NASAMS systems were acquired by the Spanish Army in 2003.
  • In December 2006, the Dutch Army signed a contract with Kongsberg for the upgraded NASAMS II air defence system, which uses EADS TRML-3D mobile surveillance radars.
  • NASAMS II was delivered to the RNoAF in 2007. Kongsberg was further awarded a Nkr48m ($7.49m) contract by the RNoAF to provide a Link 16 tactical data link for the NASAMS II anti-aircraft system in August 2005.
  • The Finland Ministry of Defence placed an order for the NASAMS II in April 2009.
  • Raytheon was contracted by the RNoAF in December 2011 to provide high-mobility launchers (HMLs) for the modernisation of the NASAMS. The company delivered the first HML in June 2013, as well as upgraded electronics for the canister launcher fleet, as part of the contract.
  • The RNoAF placed a contract in January 2013 to upgrade the existing missile launchers with new electronics and software for increased performance and lifetime extension of the NASAMS II system.
  • Oman’s Ministry of Defence awarded a $1.28bn contract to Raytheon in January 2014 for the NASAMS, ground support equipment, a full training package, and technical assistance.
  • In April 2014, Kitrons secured an Nkr56m order from Kongsberg to provide military communications equipment for the NASAMS air defence system to be supplied to Oman.
  • In April 2017, the NASAMS was identified as a solution by the Australian Government for a ground-based air defence capability for the Australian Army under its Land 19 Phase 7B Project. A contract was formally announced in March 2019 following risk mitigation and the Australian Government’s approval, with Raytheon Australia as the prime contractor.
  • The contract involves the supply of two NASAMS batteries to the Australian Defence Force.
  • Kongsberg was contracted by Raytheon Australia to supply NASAMS components for Australia in June 2019.
  • The first shipment of Mk2 canister launchers arrived in Australia in June 2022. The gunners of the 16th Regiment of the Royal Australian Artillery were provided a first glimpse of the NASAMS in April 2023.
  • The two batteries are expected to be fielded following the final operational capability by 2026.
  • In October 2017, the Indonesian government signed a contract worth $77m with Kongsberg for the supply of two batteries for the NASAMS air defence system.
  • Hungary awarded a contract worth €410m to Kongsberg and Raytheon Missiles & Defence for the medium-range air defence system in November 2020. It became the world’s 12th country to procure the NASAMS system. The equipment is expected to be delivered by August 2023.
  • Kongsberg received a contract from the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency to upgrade the radars of NASAMS in June 2023. The AN/MPQ-64 radars will be upgraded by replacing certain parts. Raytheon, which is responsible for the supply of the upgrade modules, is upgrading the first radar. Kongsberg will perform the remaining upgrades, with work expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
  • The US Department of Defense announced the authorisation of weapons under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative in July 2022. The package included two NASAMS along with other defence equipment to enhance Ukraine’s capabilities to counter Russia in the ongoing conflict between the two countries.
  • Raytheon Missiles & Defence received a $182m contract from the US Army in August 2022 to provide the NASAMS for Ukraine.
  • The company received a follow-on contract from the US Army in November 2022 to provide six NASAMS batteries for Ukraine. The contract also includes training and logical support to the Ukrainian military and security forces.
  • The US government approved the supply of additional munitions for the NASAMS as part of defence assistance for Ukraine in November 2022 and January 2023.
  • The US State Department approved the request of the Ukraine government for the purchase of equipment worth $285m including the NASAMS, AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel Radar, and FDC in May 2023. The package also includes canister launchers, communications, GPS receivers, code loaders, spare parts, as well as logistics and programme support.
  • Lithuania’s Defence Material Agency signed a contract with Kongsberg in June 2023 for the procurement of two upgraded NASAMS missile launchers to be donated to Ukraine. The Norwegian Ministry of Defence agreed to donate support equipment for the NASAMS.


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