DEFSEC 2025 in Halifax saw record attendance amid Canada’s urgent defence procurement needs and new policy shifts, including a Defence Investment Agency and accelerated submarine competition timelines. Yet, discussions were overshadowed by Trump and Hegseth’s alarming address to U.S. generals, signalling potential internal conflict that could profoundly impact Canada’s security future.

Prime Minister Mark Carney recently pledged Canada's commitment to a two-state solution in the Middle East, including deploying Canadian troops to enforce peace. However, Canada's military is already stretched thin with understrength forces and limited resources, raising concerns over the feasibility of deploying troops to both Ukraine and Gaza.

Canada’s military faces a readiness crisis, with nearly half its equipment unserviceable and critical shortages in personnel and spare parts. Major-General Robert Ritchie admitted the Army lacks vehicles to train at home, forcing pre-deployment exercises for NATO in Latvia. Leadership continues to downplay issues, despite growing operational risks.

Canada’s defence spending has long lagged behind NATO’s 2% GDP target. PM Mark Carney pledged to meet it this year through new funding and restructuring, including moving the Coast Guard under National Defence. But with NATO raising its benchmark to 5% by 2035, Canada faces tough capability and procurement choices.

China staged its largest-ever military parade in Tiananmen Square, showcasing modern weapons and hosting leaders like Putin and Kim Jong-Un. While spectacles project power, history shows parades don’t equal combat effectiveness. Canada’s own NATO forces in Latvia also suffer from readiness issues, raising concerns about true military capability behind the showmanship.

On September 19, the Royal Canadian Navy celebrated a Northern Affiliation ceremony with Nunavik, uniting the community with HMCS Frédérick Rolette. This initiative strengthens ties between the RCN and Canada’s North, fostering mutual respect, cultural exchange, and learning opportunities as Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels build lasting partnerships with northern communities.

Commissionaires Nova Scotia launches Purpose & Protection, a new podcast exploring the stories and values of Canada’s only not-for-profit security provider. Debuting in advance of the Commissionaires’ 100th anniversary in 2025, the monthly series features veterans, leaders, and public servants sharing powerful insights on service, security, and community impact.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has committed to replacing Canada’s aging Victoria-class submarines with up to 12 new conventional-powered boats. Procurement has begun, with input from international builders and Canadian industry. Estimated at $100 billion, the project promises advanced capabilities, Arctic operations, and industry benefits—while raising concerns about training enough submariners.

To fund a historic increase in defence spending, Prime Minister Carney’s government is demanding federal departments find up to 15% in savings by 2028. However, National Defence faces only a 2% cut, exempting equipment and key budgets. Canada aims to hit NATO’s 5% GDP target by 2035, amid union concerns.

A movement led by General (ret’d) Rick Hillier urges the Chief of Defence Staff to recommend a review of Private Jesse Larochelle’s Star of Military Valour, potentially upgrading it to a Canadian Victoria Cross. Veterans demand recognition of wartime sacrifice and justice for Larochelle through renewed scrutiny and parliamentary support.

A June 11, 2025 op-ed dismissing a mixed fighter jet fleet for Canada is criticized as unsupported and hyperbolic. The rebuttal emphasizes the need for detailed analysis on costs, operational capabilities, and political considerations—highlighting the F-35's $90B lifecycle cost and urging transparency in the government's decision-making process.

Barry Pitcher, a veteran of both the CAF and RCMP, brings a people-first, mission-driven leadership style to his role as CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia. His career is marked by operational excellence, resilience, advocacy for inclusion, and a deep commitment to veterans, community safety, and meaningful service beyond the uniform.

As 2025 ends, the CAF faces its 2026 goal for 25% women in the ranks—a target rooted in decades of human rights rulings, employment equity law, and workforce research, not symbolism. Set in 2010 as “ambitious but achievable,” it aims to strengthen operational capability by drawing on Canada’s full talent pool.

The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP) will deliver 12 new submarines, strengthening Canada’s defence, Arctic security, and NATO commitments while creating major economic opportunities. With 17+ years supporting the Victoria Class, Babcock Canada is leveraging its expertise to ensure through-life sustainment, workforce development, and operational readiness for Canada’s future submarine fleet.

Aero Gatineau-Ottawa 2025 delivered three days of perfect weather, thrilling aerial performances, and family fun. From the Snowbirds, SkyHawks, and vintage warbirds to aerobatic displays, jet passes, and even superhero skydivers, the show offered something for everyone. With new kid-friendly activities and crowd-pleasing stunts, it was an unforgettable weekend.