Canada’s Voice for Defence and Security
For over nine decades, the Conference of Defence Associations has been a trusted, non-partisan convener advancing credible ideas, responsible debate, and a steadfast commitment to Canada’s national security. Today, as global threats intensify and our allies rearm, Canada faces hard choices. The CDA and CDAI provides the insight, research, and leadership required to make those choices wisely.
Why Canada Must Act Now
Canada’s strategic environment has changed. Our adversaries are investing, modernizing, and projecting power into the Arctic, and cyberspace. Democracies are under pressure, deterrence is fraying, and the global balance of power is shifting sharply.
Canada cannot afford complacency.
A secure future requires:
- Strong alliances
- Credible military capability
- Sustainable defence investment
- Modern equipment across all domains
- A ready and resilient Canadian Armed Forces
- Strong competitive personel policies and support for military families
The CDA equips policymakers, Canadians, and allies with clear-eyed analysis to meet these challenges.
Our Priorities
Reinforce Canada’s Role in the World
Canada’s influence depends on meeting commitments and demonstrating reliability. The CDA advocates for a defence posture that strengthens NATO, NORAD, ‘Five Eyes’ and Canada–U.S. security cooperation.
Modernize and Equip the Canadian Armed Forces
The CAF must be capable of operating in contested air, maritime, land, space, and cyber environments. From submarines to air defence, Arctic mobility to digital readiness, Canada requires a coherent modernization agenda.
Build a Defence Industrial Base for the 21st Century
Canada’s economy and national security hinge on supply-chain resilience, advanced technology, and sovereign capabilities. CDA supports policy that accelerates defence procurement, incentivizes innovation, and strengthens domestic capacity.
Support the People Who Serve
The morale, health, and retention of CAF members and veterans remain essential national responsibilities. CDA champions policies that protect the dignity, well-being, and career pathways of those who serve and advocates for military families.
What We Do
Trusted Research & Policy Analysis
Through strategic briefs, reports, and expert commentary in cooperation with our partner the CDA Institute we deliver rigorous, non-partisan insight on Canada’s defence challenges and opportunities.
National Advocacy & Public Outreach
We engage policymakers, parliamentarians, industry, and Canadians through national campaigns, standing committees, and direct outreach.
Expert Convening Across Defence and Security
From the Ottawa Conference to specialized roundtables, CDA brings together leading thinkers, military leaders, industry, and allies to shape informed debate.
Independent Monitoring of Canada’s Defence Commitments
CDA tracks government progress on defence spending, capability development, procurement timelines, readiness, and personnel reforms.
Key Issues We Champion
Protecting Canada’s Arctic
Competing great-power activity, Russian militarization, and climate-driven access demand a credible Canadian presence backed by modern capabilities.
Meeting NATO’s Defence Spending Benchmark
Canada needs realistic, transparent, and sustained investment to rebuild our capabilities and ensure operational readiness particularly for our troops on the frontline in Latvia.
Reforming Procurement for Speed and Effectiveness
Long timelines undermine readiness. CDA supports reforms that deliver equipment faster, reduce bureaucratic layers, and encourage industry partnership.
Strengthening Canada–U.S. Defence Cooperation
NORAD modernization, continental defence, and Arctic security require renewed investment and diplomatic focus.
Countering Hybrid Threats and Hostile Influence
Cyber, disinformation, foreign interference, and economic coercion must be met with whole-of-government resilience.
How You Can Take Action
1. Stay Informed
Subscribe to CDA Institute updates for research, analysis, and advocacy alerts.
2. Engage Your Member of Parliament
Use our tools and briefing notes to encourage stronger defence policy and sustained investment.
3. Support Our Work
Donate or partner with us in advancing responsible, non-partisan defence policy in Canada.
4. Participate in CDA Events
Join leading experts for deep discussions about Canada’s security future.
Why CDA Matters
Canada needs a strong, informed, and credible national-security community.
The CDA is the country’s oldest and most trusted defence voice — independent, analytical, and committed to Canada’s interests.
OUR MISSION IS SIMPLE
Ensure Canada has the strategy, capabilities, and leadership required to protect its people, its sovereignty, and its role in the world.
