In April 2024, the Liberal government of Canada, backed by trade unions, unveiled an updated defense policy, pledging substantial investments to bolster military spending. This update prioritized the modernization of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and emphasized Canada’s readiness to engage in global defense efforts, particularly against potential threats from Russia and China.
At the core of this update is the modernization of NORAD, which has been a cornerstone of the military alliance between the US and Canada since its establishment in 1958. During a visit to Ottawa, US President Joe Biden highlighted NORAD’s significance, referring to it as “the only binational military command in the world.” The policy update underscores Canada’s commitment to defending North America in collaboration with the US and its allies, linking this defense mission to broader global security objectives.
The Canadian government has committed to significant investments as part of its NORAD modernization plan. This includes enhancing integrated air and missile defense capabilities across all operational theaters, from the Arctic to the South China Sea. The policy argues that a robust defense at home enables Canada to support its allies without fear of retaliation. In June 2022, the Trudeau government pledged CAD 39 billion over 20 years to upgrade NORAD, including an initial CAD 4.9 billion over six years for early warning surveillance and northern infrastructure. Military analysts caution that costs could exceed these estimates due to technological advancements and changing parameters.
A notable aspect of NORAD’s modernization involves purchasing 88 F-35 fighter jets from the US and developing radar systems for early detection of ballistic missile activity. These investments, while framed as defensive, aim to strengthen Canada’s capabilities in potential conflicts with Russia and China and secure its strategic position in the Arctic. The push for militarization extends beyond Canadian initiatives, with the US urging Canada to enhance its Arctic capabilities to counter the strategic interests of Russia and China. Disputes over Arctic claims, such as the Northwest Passage, highlight the underlying tensions between North American allies.
Climate change exacerbates competition in the Arctic, turning it into a new frontier in the escalating global conflict. The region’s rich resources and strategic trade routes have attracted significant interest, leading to an increased military presence of Arctic-bordering states. The US and its allies, including Canada, are preparing for potential conflicts over these valuable assets. The Trudeau government has shifted from preferring NORAD’s joint management of the Arctic to welcoming NATO’s involvement, as evidenced by a 2022 visit by Trudeau and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg to NORAD facilities. Former Defence Minister Anita Anand emphasized a more proactive approach to national defense, citing the challenging global environment.
There is unanimous support within Canada’s political establishment for NORAD modernization. However, some critics argue that the government should expedite the procurement of new weapons and increase their numbers. The Bloc Québécois, focused on Quebec’s share of defense spending, echoes these sentiments. The militarization of the Arctic is part of a broader resurgence of competition over resources, markets, and influence. The ongoing conflict between the US and Russia in Ukraine and preparations for potential conflict with China underscore this trend. The strategic importance of the Arctic in these conflicts is evident in its resource wealth, emerging trade routes, and military advantages.
The 2022 US National Defense Strategy emphasizes the importance of the Arctic in the context of climate change and strategic competition. It calls for improved early warning systems and partnerships, particularly with Canada, to enhance North American defense capabilities. A report by the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy highlights the Arctic’s significance for Canadian interests, arguing that NORAD modernization is essential for maintaining strong relations with the US and advancing Canada’s strategic goals. Enhancing Arctic capabilities, the report suggests, would position Canada as a key player in countering Chinese influence.
The report also underscores the potential of the Arctic’s resources, including critical minerals essential for the clean energy economy. It suggests that Canada’s significant Arctic mineral deposits could make it a major supplier of these resources, enhancing its strategic position. The report discusses territorial claims under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), noting the competition among Arctic states to extend their continental shelves. This has led to disputes, particularly between Canada and Russia, over conflicting claims.
To safeguard its Arctic interests, Canadian policymakers seek to engage with indigenous communities. The report suggests that collaboration with indigenous peoples could strengthen Canada’s Arctic strategy, despite challenges such as ongoing oppression and environmental degradation.
The militarization of the Arctic and broader strategic ambitions represent significant opportunities for Canada. A proactive approach to defense modernization and Arctic engagement can bolster Canada’s security and advance its economic interests on the global stage. By leveraging its resources and partnerships effectively, Canada can position itself as a key player in shaping the future of the Arctic and maintaining stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
Sehr Rushmeen
Sehr Rushmeen, an Islamabad based freelance researcher, did her MPhil from National Defence University (NDU) in Strategic Studies and her BSc from University of London (UOL) in International Relations. Her area of research interest is Strategic Nuclear Studies, Artificial Intelligence in Warfare, Middle East, South China Sea and South Asian Politics. She tis on X by the handle @rushmeentweets and can be reached on sehrrushmeenwrites@gmail.com.
