Canada’s New Government Announces Major Boost to Armed Forces

In a decisive move to strengthen national security and sovereignty, Canada’s new government has unveiled a sweeping plan to rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces. Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the urgency of the initiative amid a world marked by growing dangers and division.

“In an increasingly dangerous and divided world, Canada must assert its sovereignty. We will rapidly procure new equipment and technology, build our defence industrial capacity, and meet our NATO defence commitment this year. Canada will seize this opportunity with urgency and determination,” Carney stated.

The government’s plan aims to elevate Canada’s defense spending to meet NATO’s 2 percent GDP target by 2025—five years ahead of schedule—with investments exceeding $9 billion in the 2025-26 fiscal year alone.

Beyond meeting this benchmark, the plan commits to accelerating defense investments in the years ahead, reflecting the country’s evolving security imperatives.

Key elements of the plan include:

• Enhanced pay, recruitment, and retention efforts for Canadian Armed Forces personnel.

• Procurement of new aircraft, armed vehicles, and ammunition, alongside support for ongoing projects.

• Development of advanced drones and sensors to monitor critical areas like the seafloor and the Arctic.

• Repair and maintenance of existing military ships, aircraft, and assets.

• Increased healthcare funding and staffing dedicated to Armed Forces members.

• Expansion of the Canadian Coast Guard’s capabilities and integration into NATO defence operations, strengthening maritime security.

• Investments to boost Canadian defence industrial capacity.

• Building expertise and infrastructure in artificial intelligence, cyber security, quantum technology, and space.

• Modernizing and securing digital infrastructure to support defence operations.

The plan will bolster crucial capabilities such as the Arctic Over-the-Horizon Radar, Joint Counter-Drone Program, Joint Support Ships, long-range precision strike capacity, increased domestic ammunition production, and additional logistics and armoured vehicles.

Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty highlighted the government’s commitment to both personnel and industry: “For generations, Canadians have served our country with honour, and today, we renew our promise to stand behind them. We are equipping our Armed Forces with the capabilities and support they need to protect Canadians and uphold our commitments around the world. This historic investment will strengthen our sovereignty and invest in the Canadian economy – growing a world-class defence industry that fuels innovation and job creation.”

Veterans will also benefit from the new initiative, with plans to modernize benefits for quicker access, streamline military trade credential recognition in civilian sectors, and improve health services tailored for women veterans.

As Canada strengthens its military readiness and sovereignty, the government is also committed to driving innovation and creating good jobs at home, ensuring that national defence supports broader economic growth and security.

With this ambitious reinvestment, Canada is positioning itself to face present and future challenges with resilience and leadership, safeguarding its people and values on the global stage.