Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, has called on Canada to transfer over 83,000 decommissioned CRV7 rockets, slated for disposal in Ottawa. According to Budanov, Ukraine is currently in negotiations with the Canadian government on this matter, but a final decision has not yet been reached.
“We need any ammunition we can get,” stated Budanov in an interview with the Canadian news channel Global News. He emphasized that CRV7 rockets could be utilized by Ukrainian forces to target Russian tanks and artillery.
In response, the Canadian government has expressed concerns regarding the safety of using and transporting CRV7 rockets that have been stored for an extended period. According to representatives of the Canadian government, the rockets may have become unstable due to weather conditions and other factors.
What are CRV7 Rockets?
CRV7 rockets are 70mm unguided aviation rockets developed by the Canadian company Bristol Aerospace (now Magellan Aerospace). These rockets are designed to engage ground targets from helicopters and aircraft.
CRV7 rockets have been part of the arsenal of the Canadian Armed Forces since the 1970s. In 2019, Ottawa announced plans to decommission these rockets and replace them with more modern counterparts.
Why does Ukraine Need These Rockets?
Ukraine has been engaged in a fierce war with Russia since 2014. Russian forces hold a significant advantage in artillery, making any weaponry crucial for Ukraine to resist the enemy.
Although outdated, CRV7 rockets can be effective against Russian tanks and other armored vehicles. They can also be used to target concentrations of enemy personnel.
Will Canada Agree to Transfer CRV7 Rockets to Ukraine?
A final decision on this matter has not been made. The Canadian government will carefully consider all risks and factors before providing a response.