Canada has received its first tranche of C22 full-frame Sig Sauer P320 semi-automatic handguns as part of a contract with MD Charlton.
The weapons were distributed to soldiers, and training to operate them has begun at Infantry School Gagetown in New Brunswick, according to a social media statement.
Awarded in October 2022, the $3.2 million contract ordered approximately 7,000 P320s, including holster, spare parts, and training.
The agreement includes an option for 9,500 additional guns for the Canadian joint forces and military police. The acquisition will cost $7.6 million if all options are exercised.
New Pistols for Canadian Armed Forces
The Sig Sauer P320 handgun is built with ammunition and ballistic technology similar to the Browning Hi-Power 9-millimeter pistol, which it will eventually replace.
Enhancements to the new weapon include lighter weight, improved ergonomic design, expanded magazine capacity, and load indicator that is visible to the user at any angle.
Canada is among the first governments to employ the pistol alongside the UK and the US.
“This contract will provide our troops with modern, reliable pistols and holsters to carry out their work, while supporting economic opportunities for the Canadian defence industry,” Canadian Public Services and Procurement Minister Helena Jaczek explained during the contract announcement last year.
“The Government of Canada is committed to providing the Canadian Armed Forces with the equipment they need when they need it. Replacing the Browning… will help ensure the continued operational readiness and effectiveness of all our members,” Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand added.