The Conference of Defence Associations Institute (CDAI) applauds Prime Minister Carney’s commitment to raise defence spending to the NATO two per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) target this year, a long-awaited and remarkable announcement.
In particular, CDAI is excited and pleased to see the Carney government commit to “rebuilding, rearming, and reinvesting in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).” We agree with the government’s assessment that the international order has eroded, and that Canada faces a wide range of threats, forcing much-needed reinvestment in the CAF. Now more than ever, Canada must be ready to defend Canadians, ensure its sovereignty and prosperity, and stand as a capable and credible ally to like-minded nations.
The Prime Minister’s commitment target this year is long overdue and we commend the investment of a further $9 billion in defence in 2025-26. We concur with the government’s plan and are particularly pleased with the new measures to help military personnel, families, and veterans. The purchase of new equipment and technology for the CAF of the future as well as the reinvestment in our existing force is most welcome and extremely necessary after cuts to the operations and maintenance budget of $1.7 billion over the last two to three years.
CDAI is encouraged by the announced integration of the Canadian Coast Guard with Canada’s defence capabilities, which will enhance Canada’s posture in our Arctic and Northern regions. The government’s commitment to the Canadian defence industry and its intent to join the Rearm Europe (Readiness 2030) program will support the delivery of defence capability and enhance economic security in an uncertain trade environment.
Building capacity in artificial intelligence, cyber, quantum, and space will bolster Canada’s posture as a credible and capable ally, while also advancing our country’s research and development of innovative technology. As always, the devil is in the details.
We acknowledge that the Department of National Defence lapses monies every year to the tune of upwards of $1 billion dollars, largely in its capital budget. We are watching the announced creation of a “Defence Procurement Agency” closely and welcome the Prime Minister’s statement that it will consolidate decision-making and speed delivery. The level of ambition of both existing programs and new infrastructure and plans is very welcome and will require sustained political and bureaucratic commitment.
CDAI stands ready to support the national defence community in this new chapter. We will continue to inform national debate, contribute to public literacy on defence and national security across the country, and convene government, military, industry, civil society, and foreign partners to advance Canada’s national interests.
