A new weapon has landed in Afghanistan, one used to protect Canadian soldiers against the ever-present threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDS).
The RSD Husky is hailed as the most advanced metal detector in the world and has been credited with saving the lives of hundreds of U.S. soldiers already using the vehicle in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Twenty-nine of the 71 Canadian military personnel who have died in Afghanistan were killed by roadside bombs, while another 11 Canadian soldiers have died in suicide bomb attacks.
Most of the IEDs found in Afghanistan up until last year were small and posed a less significant threat.
Lately, Canadians are uncovering sophisticated bombs made in secret labs that are equipped with specialized remote-controlled devices.
Up to this point, Canadian soldiers have cleared explosives from Afghan roads while searching on foot, a procedure that is dangerous and not always precise.
Rising casualties on Afghan roads has prompted troops to switch to less traditional supply procedures like using Hercules C-130 transport planes to deliver supplies to soldiers from above.
Soldiers will begin using the multi-million-dollar armoured vehicles within the coming weeks, an addition that is that is a welcome sight for the Canadian military.
"I'm sure we could help reduce some losses with better route-clearance package like this," Capt. Dave Holsworth, a member of the 5th Combat Engineers Regiment based in Valcartier, Que., told Â鶹´«Ã½.
Built in South Africa, the vehicles are equipped with sophisticated metal and electronic detectors that scan roads and ditches for explosive and land mines while wheels mounted at the back of the vehicle trigger buried explosives.
The entire Husky design is geared toward protecting the driver. The V-shape of the hull will divert a blast up and outwards as the driver sits high above.
The substantial distance from the front wheels to the cab also provides ample protection for soldiers should the wheels trigger a blast.
Those charged with driving the new Huskies welcome the added protection for themselves and their comrades.
"You know that the guys are depending on you for your job and you know if you do it well you're going to save some lives and it makes you feel good," Cpl. Tom Reid told Â鶹´«Ã½.
Canada bought 16 new vehicles at a cost of $29.6 million, including six Huskies. Two of the Huskies will remain in Canada for training purposes.
Troops are also set to receive five American-built Buffalo vehicles that dig out IEDS while crew members remain inside the heavily-armoured vehicle.
Canadian soldiers will also receive five Cougar vehicles equipped to disable and destroy roadside bombs.
With a report from CTV's Steve Chao and files from The Canadian Press
