Key Points and Summary: Canada’s “Our North, Strong and Free” defense policy outlines ambitious plans to modernize the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), emphasizing Arctic security, NORAD cooperation with the US, and advanced technologies like cyber warfare and drones.
-However, the policy’s success hinges on overcoming chronic underfunding, recruitment and retention challenges, and a historically inefficient procurement system.
-While increased defense spending and a focus on technological advancements are positive steps, addressing these systemic issues, and balancing alliance commitments with strategic autonomy are crucial for Canada to effectively enhance its military capabilities and safeguard its national interests in a changing global landscape.
From Cyber Warfare to Submarines: Inside Canada’s Defense Overhaul
Canada’s recently unveiled defense policy, Our North, Strong and Free, marks a pivotal shift in the nation’s strategic priorities, emphasizing the enhancement of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to address emerging threats, particularly in the Arctic and North American regions.
This policy outlines key initiatives, including significant investments in Arctic and North American security, collaboration with the United States for NORAD modernization, and the transformation of the CAF into a technologically advanced fighting force. While these objectives are commendable, the policy’s success hinges on addressing long-standing challenges within Canada’s defense framework.
Arctic and North American Security
The policy’s focus on bolstering security in the Arctic and North America is timely, given the increasing geopolitical interest in the Arctic’s resources and strategic position. Climate change has rendered previously inaccessible areas navigable, attracting attention from global powers such as Russia and China.
Canada’s commitment to investing in new capabilities and equipment aims to assert sovereignty and protect national interests in these regions.
However, the effectiveness of this initiative depends on the timely and efficient allocation of resources, as well as the development of infrastructure to support military operations in harsh Arctic conditions.
NORAD Modernization
Collaborating with the United States to modernize the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) is a strategic move to enhance continental defense. The modernization efforts are expected to address advanced threats, including hypersonic missiles and sophisticated aerial incursions.
This collaboration underscores the importance of a unified defense strategy in North America. However, it also necessitates a careful balance between shared responsibilities and national sovereignty, ensuring that Canada’s defense priorities are adequately represented and addressed within the partnership.
Technological Advancements
Transforming the CAF into a technologically advanced fighting force is essential in the modern warfare landscape. The policy emphasizes the acquisition of cutting-edge technologies, such as advanced surveillance systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, and cyber defense capabilities.
While this transformation is crucial, it must be accompanied by comprehensive training programs to ensure personnel are proficient in utilizing new technologies. Additionally, the procurement process should be streamlined to prevent delays and cost overruns that have historically plagued Canadian defense acquisitions.
Addressing Persistent Challenges
Despite the forward-looking initiatives outlined in “Our North, Strong and Free,” the policy must confront enduring challenges that could impede its implementation. Chronic underfunding has left the CAF grappling with outdated equipment and infrastructure. The government’s pledge to increase defense spending to meet NATO’s 2% GDP target by 2032 is a step in the right direction, but the prolonged timeline raises concerns about the immediacy of addressing current deficiencies.
Recruitment and retention issues further exacerbate the CAF’s challenges. The military faces difficulties in attracting new talent and retaining experienced personnel, leading to understaffed units and increased operational strain. To mitigate this, the policy should incorporate strategic
es to enhance the appeal of military careers, such as offering competitive compensation, improving living conditions, and providing clear career progression paths.
Moreover, the CAF’s procurement system has been criticized for inefficiency and lack of transparency. Past projects have suffered from significant delays and budget overruns, undermining the military’s operational readiness.
Implementing procurement reform is essential to ensure that the CAF can acquire necessary equipment and technology promptly and within budget constraints.
Strategic Autonomy and Alliance Dynamics
While collaboration with allies, particularly the United States, is a cornerstone of Canada’s defense strategy, it is imperative to maintain strategic autonomy. Overreliance on alliances can lead to vulnerabilities, especially if allied priorities shift. Canada must invest in capabilities that allow for independent operations when necessary, ensuring that national interests are upheld without undue dependence on external partners.
A Canadian CF-18 Hornet in flight during an air combat training exercise for Squadron 425 pilots from Bagotville.
Furthermore, as global power dynamics evolve, Canada should reassess its role within international alliances such as NATO. Engagements should be aligned with national interests, avoiding overextension in regions where Canadian strategic stakes are minimal. A focused approach will enable the CAF to concentrate resources on defending the homeland and contributing effectively to collective security in areas of direct relevance.
Conclusion: How to Rebuilt Canada’s Military
Our North, Strong and Free presents a comprehensive vision for strengthening Canada’s defense posture in response to emerging threats. The policy’s emphasis on Arctic security, NORAD modernization, and technological advancement is well-founded.
Sergeant Stéphane Gauvreau and Bombardier Kevin Guy engage an air target with the Air Defence Anti-Tank System (ADATS), Call Sign (C/S) 22A, at range X-21, CFB Suffield, during Ex Potent Knight. Both are members of 128 Battery, 4 Air Defence Regiment (4 AD Regt) at CFB Gagetown, New Brunswick. Elements of 4 Air Defence Regiment from Gagetown, Moncton and Cold Lake took part in Exercise Potent Knight at Canadian Forces Base Suffield, Alberta. Ex Potent Knight was an opportunity to fire 40 live missiles from the Air Defense Anti-Tank System (ADATS) at air and ground targets. Photo by MCpl Dan Noiseux.
However, its success will depend on addressing persistent challenges related to funding, personnel, and procurement. By implementing reforms and maintaining a balanced approach between collaboration and autonomy, Canada can enhance its military capabilities and safeguard its national interests in an increasingly complex global security environment.
About the Author: Dr. Andrew Latham
A 19FortyFive Contributing Editor, Andrew Latham is a professor of international relations at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minn., a senior Washington fellow at the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy, and a non-resident fellow at Defense Priorities in Washington, D.C. He regularly teaches courses on international security, Chinese foreign policy, war and peace in the Middle East, Regional Security in the Indo-Pacific Region, and the World Wars. Professor Latham has been published in outlets such as The Hill, The Diplomat, Canadian Defence Quarterly, The Conversation, Wavell Room/British Military Thought, Defense One, and Responsible Statecraft.
