Computerised battlefield simulations have been conducted as part of the IFM programme’s options analysis phase. These simulations, developed using Python with the SimPy package, assessed the operational effectiveness of indirect fire systems, including 81mm and 120mm mortars, M777 lightweight towed howitzers, and rocket artillery. Data collected from workshops with subject matter experts have been used to refine the model, focusing on weapon system specifications, ammunition consumption, and mission success probabilities under different threat scenarios.
While full funding for the IFM programme has not yet been secured, it has been identified as the second-highest procurement priority for the Canadian Army, following the Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) programme. The Chief of the Canadian Army has highlighted the indirect fires capability gap as a critical issue, and efforts are ongoing to finalise funding recommendations. A statement of capability deficiency has been drafted to address operational gaps, particularly in relation to Canada’s commitments under Operation Reassurance.