Canada’s latest $200M contribution to Ukraine, part of NATO’s PURL initiative, will fund U.S.-sourced air defence systems and ammunition. Despite calls to reduce reliance on American weaponry, Canada continues directing defence dollars to U.S. firms. The article argues Canada should shift toward domestic production, including building Swedish Gripen jets in Canada.

Debate over Canada’s fighter jet purchase has intensified as politics, tariffs, and defence priorities collide. While the RCAF insists on the F-35, Sweden’s Gripen offer—complete with Canadian assembly and major job creation—has gained public traction. As diplomatic pressure mounts, Canada weighs reliability, cost, and sovereignty in its final decision.

Canada’s long-running fighter replacement debate has intensified as PM Mark Carney questions reliance on U.S. defence technology and orders a review of the F-35 purchase. With SAAB pushing its Gripen—offering lower costs, high readiness, and Canadian assembly jobs—the decision now balances capability, sovereignty, industry, and shifting geopolitics.

A leaked Defence Mobilization Plan has triggered controversy after revealing aims to expand Canada’s reserves to 400,000 personnel, including 300,000 minimally trained supplementary reservists drawn largely from public servants. Critics accuse senior CAF leadership of poor judgment, deflection, and repeating past mistakes, raising concerns about readiness, credibility, and national defence priorities.

A new mobilization plan proposes expanding Canada’s military reserves to 400,000 despite current recruitment struggles and a 14,500-personnel shortfall. With outdated infrastructure, a dwindling supplementary reserve, and ongoing housing shortages, experts question how such a massive expansion could be achieved. Many argue the CAF must first improve conditions for existing members.

Last Thursday, the Canadian Armed Forces formally apologized for decades of racial discrimination and harassment. The unprecedented ceremony, led by Gen. Jennie Carignan and CWO Bob McCann, featured emotional reflections from racialized veterans and community leaders. The event marked a significant step toward healing, accountability, and cultural transformation within the CAF.

The Government of Canada has introduced the most substantial update to CAF compensation and benefits in decades, supporting Regular and Reserve members, including Rangers and COATS. Pay increases—retroactive to April 1, 2025—have begun, with more initiatives coming. These changes honour the dedication, sacrifice, and essential contributions of CAF members and their families.

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.

Canada’s military leaders warn that global threats are escalating, urging a nationwide “whole of society” mobilization to prepare for potential conflict. While calls for massive recruitment spark public skepticism, the deeper concern remains: Canada is investing heavily in war readiness but not equally in diplomacy to prevent the conflict its leaders fear is coming.

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.

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.

Australia’s bill creates an independent, survivor-centred watchdog with legal duties to prevent sexual violence and hold commanders accountable. Canada’s Bill C-11 offers administrative changes without structural reform, shifting cases to civilians and reducing military accountability. The article argues Australia’s approach protects members, while Canada’s leaves survivors burdened and institutions unchanged.

Canada has apologized for many defence-related injustices — but not to the women who served in a system never designed for them. From unsafe workplaces to decades of ignored gender-specific needs, the harms were real and lasting. Until Canada names and owns these failures, its apology record remains unfinished.

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.

Canada’s domestic defence and space sectors are advancing with major investments and partnerships. New funding boosts sovereign launch capabilities in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, while key contracts strengthen Army training, RCAF aircrew programs, and naval water purification. International collaboration—particularly with Korea—continues to expand Canada’s strategic space and defence footprint.