HALIFAX, NS — Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a comprehensive Liberal plan to significantly enhance the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), aiming to bolster national sovereignty amid escalating global tensions.
The announcement continues to demonstrate Liberal leader Mark Carney shifting course for the Liberals from the Trudeau government.
The initiative underscores a commitment to achieving the NATO defence spending target of 2% of GDP by 2030, emphasizing prudent and effective allocation of resources.
Key Components of the Plan:
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Naval Expansion: Procurement of new submarines and heavy icebreakers to fortify Arctic defense capabilities.
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National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) Commitment: Continuation and fulfillment of existing NSS orders, supporting approximately 21,400 jobs nationwide, including 9,500 positions at Irving Shipbuilding. This encompasses the construction of Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships and River-class destroyers.
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Domestic Manufacturing Emphasis: Collaboration with Canadian shipyards to maximize domestic production, prioritizing the use of Canadian steel and aluminum to stimulate local industries.
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Canadian Coast Guard Enhancement: Integration of the Coast Guard into NATO defense strategies, equipping it for maritime surveillance to safeguard sovereignty and combat illicit activities, such as drug trafficking.
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CAF Personnel Growth: Addressing the current shortfall of 14,500 members by modernizing recruitment processes, implementing pay raises, constructing new on-base housing, and improving access to medical, mental health, and childcare services.
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Equipment Standardization: Ensuring that CAF personnel defending Canada domestically have access to equipment on par with counterparts deployed abroad.
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Defense Spending Accountability: Establishment of a defense capital account to prevent lapsing of allocated funds, guaranteeing that every dollar designated for defense is utilized effectively.
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Immediate Infrastructure Investment: Upgrading CAF infrastructure, including naval facilities in Halifax, to enhance defense readiness without delay.
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Allied Procurement Partnerships: Collaborating with international allies on acquiring next-generation aircraft to modernize the fleet.
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Procurement Process Modernization: Reforming legislation to expedite the acquisition of necessary equipment, ensuring timely and efficient procurement.
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Dual-Purpose Infrastructure Investment: Investing in infrastructure projects that benefit both military operations and the public, such as housing, cybersecurity, and satellite technology, to swiftly enhance defense spending and capabilities.
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Drone Capability Development: Establishing a premier drone program to develop and deploy aquatic and airborne uncrewed vehicles for Arctic defense, protection of undersea infrastructure, border security, and support of allied operations. This initiative includes an industrial strategy to foster Canadian technological advancement and economic growth.
Prime Minister Carney emphasized the urgency of these measures, stating, “Our sovereignty faces the greatest threats in generations. The world is becoming more divided and dangerous. This plan ensures that Canada remains strong at home and abroad.”
In addition to these initiatives, the government intends to partner with Australia to develop Over-the-Horizon Radar Technology, providing early warning radar coverage for the Arctic. Furthermore, Canada plans to establish a sustained, year-round CAF presence in the Arctic, investing approximately C$420 million to enhance training and deployment in the region. Reuters
These strategic investments prioritize domestic manufacturing and supply chains, including sourcing Canadian steel and aluminum for defence procurement, thereby supporting jobs across the country. The plan reflects a concerted effort to reaffirm Canada’s sovereignty and strengthen its defence capabilities in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.
