How Many Rounds of Ammunition Does a Canadian Soldier Carry?

Supplying a soldier with the necessary equipment for a mission is a critical aspect of ensuring their readiness and effectiveness. Among the various types of equipment, ammunition plays a particularly crucial role. This article delves into the specific ammunition load carried by Canadian soldiers, based on their evolving battle needs over time.

Standard Ammunition Load for Canadian Troops

Canadian soldiers typically carry what is known as a 'battle load' which consists of 150 rounds. This ammunition is distributed across five 30-round magazines. However, depending on the anticipated duration and intensity of combat, soldiers may carry a 'double battle load,' which doubles the number of rounds to 300.

Field Naked Combat Infantry (FNCI) Ammunition Load

For individuals in the Field Naked Combat Infantry (FNCI), the ammunition load is designed to be more robust. This includes one 20-round magazine in the rifle, five additional 20-round magazines in the pockets of the combat jacket, and up to two bandoliers. Each bandolier contains six plastic tear-off pouches, each with 10 rounds in a stripper clip. This translates to an overall range of 180 to 240 rounds for an FNCI soldier.

Variations Based on Missions and Equipment

The ammunition load can vary significantly based on the mission needs and the specific equipment carried by the soldier. During operational missions in Afghanistan, a Canadian infantry soldier might carry a more substantial load. For example, in addition to the battle load, they might carry an extra 150 rounds stored in a patrol pack. Furthermore, such soldiers would typically carry essential accessories such as two frag grenades and a Browning pistol.

Vehicle-Based Ammunition Storage

For soldiers operating in vehicles, such as G-Wagons and RG31s, the ammunition load can be even more substantial. Beyond the standard loadout, these vehicles often store additional rounds of 5.56mm (used in C7A2 rifles) and 7.62mm ammunition (used in the C6 mounted gun).

Personal Purchases and Adaptations

Not all Canadian soldiers adhere strictly to the standard equipment. Many soldiers, particularly those outside of the infantry, may purchase their own chest rigs to enhance their personal loadout. These custom rigs can essentially double the amount of ammunition carried. While this can irritate senior officers, many accept it due to the practical benefits it brings to the field.

Miscellaneous Items and Preparations

It's important to note that while ammunition is crucial, other items can also play a significant role in a soldier's kit. For instance, soldiers might carry essential non-ammo items such as ten bottles of maple syrup, three pounds of Canadian bacon, several apology cards, and other personal effects. However, these items do not constitute ammunition loads but are part of the overall preparedness and readiness of the soldier for various scenarios.

Summary

Canadian soldiers, like those in other nations' military forces, carry varying amounts of ammunition based on the mission's requirements and the specific mission types. While the standard loadout includes 150 or 300 rounds, the actual number can vary widely depending on factors such as the anticipated combat duration, availability of additional storage, and personal preferences. This variability underscores the importance of flexibility and adaptability in modern military operations.