BAE Systems Hägglunds and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS)-Canada have formed a strategic partnership to compete for Ottawa’s Domestic Arctic Mobility Enhancement (DAME) program. The collaboration brings together BAE’s extensive background in all-terrain vehicle engineering and GDLS-Canada’s proven national support network. Their joint proposal centers on the BvS10 Beowulf, an advanced all-terrain carrier intended to replace the Canadian Army’s aging BV206 fleet.
A member of the BvS10 vehicle family, the Beowulf is designed for high-load and personnel transport in extreme environments. The platform can move up to 14 troops or roughly 8,000 kilograms (17,637 pounds) of cargo at speeds reaching 65 km/h (40 mph). Its dual-body tracked design enables it to operate effectively in challenging terrain, including Arctic cold, deep snow, muskeg, mud, sand, and ice. Its amphibious capability also allows the vehicle to cross deep water obstacles, supporting mobility across Canada’s diverse northern landscape.
The DAME program, valued between CAD 250 million and CAD 499 million ($178–$355 million), represents a core component of Canada’s commitment to strengthen sovereignty and mobility in the Arctic. Ottawa plans to procure medium-sized, amphibious, high-mobility carriers designed for year-round missions, along with matching support trailers. The envisioned fleet includes a common vehicle base supporting four variants: command post, troop transport, cargo and equipment carrier, and ambulance.
Initial deliveries under the program are expected between 2029 and 2030, with final units arriving by 2031–2032. Alongside the BAE–GDLS offering, Canadian firm Roshel, in partnership with Singapore’s ST Engineering, is also competing with its ExtremV platform, increasing competition for this major Arctic mobility requirement.
