CASR has an interesting proposal regarding the CV90 and how the Canadian forces could benefit from its use.
This proposal is simple: borrow a small number of up-to-date, well-protected CV9040Cs from Sweden (as done with German Leopard 2A6M tank). Buy sufficient surplus CV9040Bs to take the place of CF wheeled LAVs for winter ops. Update CV9040B running gears but remove the dated turrets. Uparmour 'B hulls [3] to CV9040C standards, plating over turret rings. Substitute an existing CF Remote Weapon System [4] for vehicle self-defence (accompanying CV9040Cs will perform the direct-fire support role). The goal is twofold: field CCVs quickly in Kandahar and prove the CCV concept to Canadians.
What also stands out is how the Canadians have readily accepted the limitations of the Stryker like LAV-III.
Instead of upgrading it, they're willing to let this evolutionary tree dead end (as it should) and are moving in an entirely new direction.
I said before that the US Marine Corps should seriously consider the CV90 Armadillo as its Marine Personnel Carrier. Seems like the guys at CASR are thinking the same way with regards to their forces.
Note*
I found this after I wrote this piece. The people at BAE stated that the CV90 Armadillo wasn't in the running for the US Army GCV or the USMC Personnel Carrier Programs. Seems like my thoughts on the CASR proposal and the Armadillo looking tailor made is spot on. Check this out.
http://www.defensefile.com/Customisation/News/Military_Vehicles/Armoured_and_tracked_vehicles/Canadian_Close_Combat_Vehicle_Program_Collaboration.asp
Now we know. The CV90 Armadillo is for Canada!
