It’s the first time since 1990 that Canada has spent at least 2% of GDP on national defence.
For the first time since 1990, Canada has met the 2% of GDP defence spending target all NATO countries agreed to. This amounts to the fulfillment of a pledge made by the federal government under Prime Minister Mark Carney, who accelerated the Trudeau-era timeline for reaching the target from 2032 to 2026.
And now, according to NATO’s latest annual report, Canada has officially reached the 2% target. With all NATO countries now having reached the 2% target, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed confidence in the strength of the alliance:
“The figures in the report speak for themselves.” Mr Rutte said. “We have made significant progress on defence investment, and NATO is stronger today than it has ever been.”
$3 billion in defence-related infrastructure investments
On the same day Canada was officially recognized for hitting the 2% target, the Canadian government announced $3 billion in infrastructure and defence-related investments in Atlantic Canada:
$1.2 billion to modernise critical power and municipal service infrastructure at CFB Halifax Dockyard and Stadacona – upgrading essential services and facilities to ensure the base has sufficient power and utilities to support new capabilities and future naval operations.
$648 million to construct two new aviation support facilities at 14 Wing Greenwood – supporting the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CP-8A Poseidon fleet and CQ-9B Guardian with modern hangars, maintenance, and operational infrastructure.
Over $180 million to build the Combatant Training and Integration Centre – supporting training, operations, and integration for the Royal Canadian Navy’s future river-class destroyers.
$82.5 million to acquire Halifax Gate – a 475-acre waterfront industrial site that will support current and future Royal Canadian Navy operations, including the movement of personnel, ships, and supplies.
$60 million for a new, 140-unit apartment complex for Canadian Armed Forces members, near 12 Wing Shearwater – because every member of our Armed Forces deserves a safe, high-quality place to call home.
Over $1 billion in the CFB Gagetown Range and Training Area – introducing new ground-based air defence systems and ensuring our soldiers train on infrastructure built to last the next century.
$20.2 million to upgrade transition centres at CFB Gagetown, improving support for Canadian Armed Forces members as they transition to civilian life.
This is an important step in the right direction. A country serious about its future invests in the institutions that secure it, and after decades of deferred commitments, Canada is doing exactly that.
Spencer Fernando
Image – YouTube
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