Canadian Forces Test 18.3m Bolt-Assembled Bridge Supporting 127 Troops at Valcartier
In January 2016, the 5th Canadian Combat Engineer Regiment (5 CER) based in Valcartier began testing a new modular aluminum bridge developed by MAADI Group as part of the MakeABridge® project. This innovative system was designed to be quickly deployed and highly versatile, offering a major advancement in temporary infrastructure for military use.
The aluminum bridge can reach a maximum length of 18.3 meters and can be assembled or dismantled in just 1 hour and 20 minutes. Each segment is connected with bolts, ensuring a solid and reliable structure. Strength and vibration tests were carried out in collaboration with the University of Waterloo to confirm its performance. According to MAADI Group’s CEO, Alex de la Chevrotiere, the bridge is “as simple to assemble as an IKEA piece,” making it especially practical for rapid deployment in the field.
Capable of supporting up to 1000 kilograms vehicles, the aluminum bridge can handle light vehicles such as ATVs or snowmobiles. It can also accommodate up to 127 soldiers at once, provided the load is evenly distributed. Although eleven units had already been sold for civilian applications at the time, this was the first instance where the bridge was evaluated in a Canadian military setting.
The 5 CER began testing the system the week of January 18 at the request of Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC). Military personnel assembled the bridge at their facility and provided valuable feedback on its performance, which will be used to refine the system ahead of potential large-scale production.
MAADI Bridge Faces Extreme Winter Trials in RAFALE BLANCHE Under BCIP Support
The bridge is also scheduled for testing during Exercise RAFALE BLANCHE, allowing evaluation under extreme winter conditions. This collaboration between MAADI Group and the Canadian Armed Forces demonstrates a commitment to innovation and the improvement of operational capabilities.
The project is supported by the Canadian Innovation Program (Build in Canada Innovation Program – BCIP), which promotes breakthrough technologies developed by Canadian companies. If adopted, this modular aluminum bridge could provide an efficient and rapid solution for obstacle crossing during military operations, both in Canada and abroad.
