This Israeli-built Heron UAV is similar to ones currently used by the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan. Photograph by: Provided, HandoutCanadian Mlitary 'Drones' To Remain Unarmed -- Canada.com
The Canadian military has decided against putting missiles on the unmanned aerial vehicles it now operates in Afghanistan.
Defence Minister Peter MacKay was briefed in March by air force officials on the various options for arming the drones, according to documents obtained by the Ottawa Citizen.
Such aircraft, also known as UAVs, are used by various militaries in Afghanistan to conduct surveillance on insurgent activities. In addition, the U.S. uses armed UAVs to conduct attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan on insurgent leaders.
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Defence Minister Peter MacKay, left, and U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates field questions after a meeting at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site in Halifax on Nov. 20, 2009. ANDREW VAUGHAN/THE CANADIAN PRESSMore News On Canada's Role In Afghanistan
Commons Afghan debate shelved, says report -- Toronto Star
Defence minister talks Afghan troop withdrawal with U.S. counterpart -- Canada.com
Canada in talks with U.S. officials to take over security for diplomats: MacKay -- Canadian Press
MacKay talks force protection with U.S. -- Globe And Mail
Canadian diplomat alleges troops in Afghanistan were complicit in torture -- The Guardian
Canada Rejects Inquiry Into Treatment of Afghan Detainees -- Bloomberg
Tories deny torture claims -- Canada.com
Ottawa asks for patience on torture claims -- Toronto Star
Canada joins demands to fight corruption as Karzai sworn in -- Canada.com
Canada backs Karzai on inauguration day -- CBC
Canada's military: Invisible no more -- Globe And Mail