The Weapons Integration Team (EIA) of the School of Infantry was formed in October 2009 to complete commissioning of various weapon systems that will take office in the infantry battalions. The team worked on several systems including the visual warning device (VAD), the Metal Detector Lightweight and Compact (DMCL), Thermal Sighting System (SVT), and our biggest project, the Grenade Launcher System Automatic (SLGA). The latter has languished for over a year, and studies of capacity and acquisition of weapons are initiated since 2002.
The team members are: WO Pierre Gagnon, Sgt Steve Filion, Sgt Patrick Charette, Sgt Fred Gagnon and Cpl Carl Gagné all R22eR, as well as WO Dwayne Jackman, Cody Arpin and MCpl Sgt Steven Pink RCR . The initial training of executives ended March 23 last. The three days of shooting on the CT HERSHEY we demonstrated the capabilities of the system and its powerful lethality. After you get to the system, you wish you had that weapon in theater! The PPCLI will perhaps soon be deployed with this system and all other units will follow the deployment.
The team shot SLGA C16 will consist of three servants and a gunner, loader and controller of the weapon. All must be qualified SLGA C16, during a period of two weeks. The first week will take place in the classroom for the theory portion and the second week on the ranges. The first course will begin in summer 2011 and will continue until spring 2012, each battalion will receive 18 systems by then.
The integration team weapons worked very hard on the training plan and training materials and we look forward to visiting units to teach the handling of the SLGA C16. We hope to show the units with the potential of this weapon and train top-notch machine gun that will greatly improve the reach and lethality of combat units.[/quoe]