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International Security

NATO Funding

  • In these Main Estimates, National Defence is requesting $460 million for the NATO Contribution Program.
  • This includes funding towards the commonly funded NATO Military Budget ($327.8 million) as well as the NATO Security Investment Program ($127.1 million).
  • More broadly, we are unwavering in our commitment to the NATO Alliance and we are investing significantly in defence.
  • Through Our North, Strong and Free, Canada will invest $8.1 billion over the next five years and $73 billion over the next 20 years in our national defence.
  • In fact, we are projecting that our defence spending to GDP ratio will reach 1.76% in 2029-30.
  • Beyond funding, we are supporting our Allies by investing in modern capabilities, such as the acquisition of up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft.
  • This fleet will operate seamlessly with our Allies and deliver high-end intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
  • In addition, we are urgently acquiring anti-aircraft, anti-drone systems, as well as modern anti-tank weapons to reinforce our troops in Latvia.
  • Finally, we are investing in the establishment of the NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence, which will be fully staffed and operational by the end of 2024.
  • This Centre will serve as a platform for NATO Allies and other global partners to understand and address the serious security implications of climate change.

If pressed on funding for Ukraine as part of NATO calculations:

  • Aid to Ukraine from the National Defence budget is included as part of the calculation of Canada’s annual military expenditure, as provided to NATO.
  • Training provided to the Ukrainian Armed Forces through Operation UNIFIER is also included in this calculation as an operational expenditure under the Defence budget.

Key Facts

Defence Spending

  • Fiscal Year 2023-24: Canada’s defence spending was estimated to be 1.33% of its GDP.
  • Projected defence spending over the next five years:
    • 2024-2025: $41.0B
    • 2025-2026: $52.3B
    • 2026-2027: $53.2B
    • 2027-2028: $53.3B
    • 2028-2029: $54.9B

NATO Common Funding

  • All NATO Allies contribute to NATO budgets based on an agreed cost-share formula derived from Gross National Income.
  • Canada is the 6th largest contributor to NATO’s common funded budget.

Spending Details

Addendum to Our North, Strong and Free: National Defence Funding and Projected Canadian Defence Spending to GDP:

All numbers are dated April 8, 2024 and are subject to change. Totals may not add due to rounding.

Cash-Based 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29 2029-30
National Defence – Projected SpendFootnote * $33.8B $44.2B $44.6B $45.0B $46.0B $49.5B
Eligible OGDs – Projected
SpendFootnote **		 $7.3B $8.1B $8.6B $8.5B $8.9B $8.3B
Canadian Defence Projected
Spend		 $41.0B $52.3B $53.2B $53.5B $54.9B $57.8B
Forecasted Canadian GDPFootnote *** $2,958.0B $3,071.6B $3,124.6B $3,176.9B $3,231.1B $3,285.6B
% GDPFootnote **** 1.39% 1.70% 1.70% 1.68% 1.70% 1.76%
% Major EquipmentFootnote ***** 19.2% 35.5% 32.8% 28.7% 27.8% 29.6%
 

Spending Details

Funding Request

  • In these Main Estimates, National Defence is requesting $460.0 million to support the NATO Contribution Program, including contributions to the NATO Military Budget and the NATO Security Investment Program.

How this funding will be spent:

  • NATO Military Budget ($327.8M) - This is a common funded program that finances the operating and maintenance costs (O&M) of NATO military structure and activities.
    • This includes O&M costs related to NATO’s military headquarters, the NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) and Allied Ground Surveillance (AGS), as well as NATO operations and missions.
    • The Alliance is also focused on supporting the Deterrence and Defence of the Euro-Atlantic Area, including through expanded military exercises to train and assess readiness as well as investments in communications systems.
  • NATO Security Investment Program (NSIP) ($127.1M) - The NSIP is a common funded program that finances the capital costs and associated project management for communications and information systems as well as installations and facilities.
    • Examples of such installations and facilities include military headquarters, radar, airfields, harbours, as well as fuel pipelines and storage.

Objectives:

  • Benefits include access to strategic information, intelligence, capabilities, facilities, and interoperability with allied forces and an equal voice in high-level decisions affecting Euro-Atlantic security and stability.

Details

NATO Common Funding Contributions as of FY 2023-24:

  • Canada’s share of NATO’s common funding is now approximately 6.7% (90% from National Defence and 10% from Global Affairs Canada).
  • National Defence’s contribution to NATO’s military budget is $244.5M. This contribution will support:
    • International Military Staff;
    • NATO’s Command Structure, made up of bases and facilities across Europe and in the United States;
    • NATO’s key air fleets: NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), and Allied Ground Surveillance (AGS); and
    • NATO operations and missions, such as the Kosovo Force (KFOR) and NATO Mission Iraq (NMI).
  • National Defence’s contribution to NATO Security Investment Program is $91.4M. This will support:
    • The capital costs for communications and information systems, installations and facilities such as radar, airfields, fuel pipelines and storage, harbours, and navigational aids to support the NATO military structure and activities, military headquarters for the integrated command structure and for deployed operations.
  • National Defence’s contribution to other NATO activities is $4.7M. This will support:
    • NATO Centres of Excellence;
    • NATO Naval Forces Sensor and Weapons Accuracy Check Sites;
    • NATO Rapidly Deployable Corps Headquarters; and
    • NATO Production and Logistics Organizations (NPLOs).

NATO Centre of Excellence on Climate and Security (CCASCOE)

  • At the June 2021 NATO Summit, the Prime Minister announced Canada’s proposal to establish and host a CCASCOE as its Framework Nation. In June 2022, Canada announced that Montréal will be the host city for the NATO CCASCOE.
  • This Centre of Excellence will be a platform for both military and civilians to develop, enhance, and share knowledge on climate change security impacts. It will also allow them to work together to build required capabilities, develop best practices, and contribute to NATO’s goal of reducing the climate impact of military activities.
  • At the July 2023 NATO Summit in Vilnius, Canada and eleven Allies signed the CCASCOE’s Operational Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to become the Centre’s founding Sponsoring Nations.
  • CCASCOE reached initial operating capacity in the late fall of 2023. The initial priority for CCASCOE is successful completion of the formal accreditation process by NATO to join the COE family.

Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA)

  • Approved by NATO in 2021, the NATO-led Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), aims to bring together the Alliance’s most promising start-ups, scientific researchers, and technology companies to solve critical defence and security challenges supporting Allied interests.
  • In November 2022, Minister Anand announced that Canada will host DIANA’s North American Regional Office in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with operations to begin in July 2024 as well as a small satellite office in the Greater Toronto Area in 2025-26.
  • DIANA launched its first three Pilot Challenges in July 2023, with the following focus areas: energy resilience, secure information sharing, and sensing and surveillance. The launch selection received 1300 applications and 44 companies were selected of which 7 are Canadian, to include: Texavie, DynoRotor Inc. (AquaGen Blue), Ping DSP, Phantom Photonics, VanWyn Inc., Marine Thinking Inc. and McGuire Aero Propulsion Solutions.
  • Canada also had two Canadian Accelerators and 13 Test Centres included in the DIANA Accelerators and Test Centres network.
  • In November 2023, the Minister announced that Canada is contributing an initial investment of $26.6 million over six years in support of establishing the North American Regional office for DIANA in Halifax.
    • The initial investment will be spent on leasing a location, operating costs and staffing.
    • The Regional office will occupy an interim office space in summer 2024 while a competitive leasing process is conducted to establish the longer term, permanent office.
    • Staffing requirements will vary during the first six years; however, it is anticipated that 8.5 ongoing permanent Canadian positions will be needed when the Regional office is established. This includes positions in Halifax and at the Department of National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario.
    • Additionally, the DIANA Regional Office in Halifax is anticipated to have up to 30 international staff.
    • The twelve (12) founding Sponsoring Nations of the CCASCOE are: Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Norway, Romania, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom.

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Military Assistance Donations to Ukraine

  • This past February, I had the opportunity to travel to Ukraine and I deeply admire the bravery and courage of Ukrainians who are fighting to defend their independence and freedom.
  • Which is why, in these Main Estimates National Defence is requesting $322.2 million for the military training and cooperation program, which includes providing military assistance to Ukraine, such as the donation of medical evacuation vehicles and armoured personnel carriers.
  • Further, I recently announced that Canada will contribute $76 million to Germany’s Immediate Action on Air Defence (IAAD) initiative in support of Ukraine.
  • This initiative pools money and resources from the international community to quickly source and deliver air defence systems for Ukraine.
  • Additionally, in March I announced that Canada will join the Ukraine Defense Contact Group’s Drone Capability Coalition, co-led by Latvia and the United Kingdom.
  • Canada remains committed to Ukraine and we are working closely with our Allies and partners to ensure that they have the tools and equipment needed to defend their sovereignty and security.

If pressed on National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) donation delays:

  • Canada has financed the purchase of the NASAMS through the United States government.
  • We remain in close contact with the US and Ukraine about this purchase, and we look forward to sharing additional information as it becomes available.
  • In the meantime, I remain in discussion with Ukrainian officials to determine what equipment we can provide to them to fulfill their urgent needs.

If pressed on CRV-7 rocket donations:

  • The Defence Team is assessing the donation of 83,000 surplus rocket motors to Ukraine.
  • We are pursuing testing to ensure that this equipment is operationally effective and safe to transport.
  • Before sending any equipment, we ensure that the donation would meet Ukraine’s military needs.
  • We are continually evaluating options to provide Ukraine with comprehensive military assistance.

Key Facts

  • Starting in 2023-2024, all military assistance to Ukraine will be administered through the Military Training and Cooperation Program (MTCP).
  • The majority of the funds requested in these Estimates for MTCP will directly support Ukraine. A breakdown of funds is as follows:
    • $300M for donations to Ukraine, including medical evacuation vehicles and armoured personnel carriers;
    • $11.4M in baseline funding for the MTCP program;
    • $7.8M for Op UNIFIER to explore training delivery options to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine and to support equipment purchases that complement the training curriculums.
    • $3M for Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) to be allocated for Women, Peace and Security training and capacity building in the Indo-Pacific

Details

  • Budget 2024 proposes to provide $1.6 billion over five years, starting in 2024-25, to National Defence for the provision of military aid to Ukraine.
    • This announcement is not reflected in the funding requested for Main Estimates 2024-25. The $1.6 billion over five years will be accessed via future Estimates processes (Supps 2024-2025 and the Department’s Annual Reference Level Update).

Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG)

  • The 21st UDCG occurred virtually on April 16, 2024.
  • Minister Blair provided the following updates:
    • Canada provided $3M to the United Kingdom to support Ukraine’s domestic drone production;
    • Canada contributed a total of $53M to the Czech-led ammunition initiative;
    • There will be a total of 900 drones from Teledyne (not 800 as previously announced), supplied to Ukraine;
    • The first 10 of 50 armoured vehicles, which will be ambulances, will be delivered to Ukraine this fall, soon after Ukrainian troops are trained on them in Europe through the summer; and
    • 10 multirole boats from Zodiac Technologies, including training, will be delivered fully to Ukraine by July.

Security Assistance Group-Ukraine (SAG-U)

  • The CAF is working alongside 17 other nations as part of the US led Security Assistance Group. Approximately 21 CAF members are actively helping to coordinate training priorities, execute the delivery of materiel, and working to align future donations and planning for the immediate and long-term needs of the Security Forces of Ukraine.
    • The contract with General Dynamics also includes elements for repairs and servicing.

Ukraine Donation Relenishment

  • Ensuring that the CAF’s stocks of ammunition and explosives are at a state of readiness for operations is a key enabler for our members to train individually and collectively as required to achieve excellence across the full spectrum of military operations.
  • Which is why, through these Main Estimates, National Defence is requesting $115.8 million for the sustainment of ammunition and explosives and replenishment of equipment donated to Ukraine.
  • These funds will help reduce a gap between our available stocks and their demand for use, as stocks have been reduced over time due to increasing demands placed on military.
  • Specifically, $95 million will be for investments in ammunitions and explosives.

Spending Details

Funding request:

  • In these Main Estimates, National Defence is requesting $115.8 million for the sustainment of ammunition and explosives and the replenishment of equipment donated to Ukraine.

How this funding will be spent:

  • Replenishment of Ammunition – National Procurement Program ($95.0M)
    • To replenish donated ammunition, including investments in ammunitions and explosives, primarily leveraging the Munitions Supply Program (MSP) and the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
  • Replenishment of Donations to Ukraine ($20.8M)
    • To replenish common items donated to Ukraine such as medical supplies and Individual Meal Packs, defensive stores and camp supplies.

Current state of donations:

  • Since the invasion in February 2022, Canada’s military contributions, including training, equipment, and transport, has been integral in Ukraine’s counter offensive to-date. Select donations include:
    • Approximately 38,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition and over 10,000 rounds of 105mm ammunition; 
    • 227 1,000-pound aircraft bombs and associated fuse assemblies;
    • Approximately 100 anti-armour weapons systems and ammunition;
    • Approximately 4,300 rocket launchers and over 7,000 hand grenades;
    • Over 640,000 individual meal packs; and
    • 2,260 gas masks and over 10,000 pieces of personal protective equipment (i.e., ballistic helmets, night vision wear, body armour); 

Key stats:

  • Since the beginning of 2022, Canada has committed $4 billion in military assistance to Ukraine. This funding will allow Canada to deliver military assistance to Ukraine through to 2029.

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Operation REASSURANCE (Latvia, Poland, Romania)

  • We continue to deploy ships, aircraft and land forces under Operation REASSURANCE to support NATO’s measures to deter further Russian aggression.
  • Which is why, National Defence is seeking $766.9 million in these Main Estimates to support the renewal and expansion of Operation REASSURANCE.
  • For example, this funding will be used to support the approximately 1,000 Canadian Armed Forces personnel currently serving on Op REASSURANCE – Canada’s largest international deployment.
  • It will also go towards the Canadian Army Tank Squadron of 15 Leopard 2 tanks, which were deployed to Latvia this past fall, as well as the upcoming deployment of four Griffon Helicopters this summer.  
  • Further, this summer, we will deploy the HMCS Charlottetown to assume the command of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2, as well as two Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels to contribute to the Standing NATO Mine Counter Measures Group 1.
  • In addition, we are working to establish the Forward Land Forces Brigade; the Brigade Headquarters will be operational this summer.
  • We continue to work with our NATO Allies to enhance collective security and move to an augmented presence of 2,200 persistently deployed troops by 2026.

Project Overview

  • Op REASSURANCE is currently the CAF’s largest overseas mission, through which the CAF contributes to NATO assurance and deterrence measures in Central and Eastern Europe, and is part of the biggest reinforcement of Alliance collective defence in a generation.
  • Approximately 1,000 CAF personnel are serving on Operation REASSURANCE – which will be augmented to 2,200 persistently deployed troops by 2026.

Spending Details

Funding Request:

  • In these Main Estimates, National Defence is requesting $766.9 million for the renewal and expansion of Operation REASSURANCE to support Canada’s ongoing commitment to NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence on the Eastern Flank.

How this funding will be spent:

  • Specifically, this new funding of $638 million in Vote 1 and $129 million in Vote 5 will be broken down against the following lines of operations to support the largest Canadian Armed Force’s (CAF) international deployment:
    • $311M for general operating costs including training, ammo, rental vehicles, other contracted services and contingency costs;
    • $152M for military vehicle operating and maintenance costs;
    • $110M for personnel costs;
    • $46M in infrastructure;
    • $39M for housing, feeding and supporting personnel;
    • $20M for ship operating and maintenance costs;
    • $15M for Armoured Heavy Support Vehicles Systems (AHSVS); and
    • $6M (Vote 1) and $68 million (Vote 5) in communications and IT equipment and services.

Current state of Operation:

  • Approximately 1,000 CAF personnel are serving on Operation REASSURANCE.
  • The CAF currently has a Maritime Task Force deployment, which contributes ships to the Standing NATO Maritime Groups.
  • CAF personnel regularly contribute to NATO’s Standing Naval Forces and will be deploying the HMCS Charlottetown this summer to assume the command of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2.
  • There is also an Air Task Force, providing logistical support out of Prestwick; and a Land Task Force, including enhanced Forward Presence Latvia.

Upcoming deployments:

  • First personnel to arrive in mid-May 2024 for the Battle Group to Brigade transition.
  • Stand up of the Forward Land Forces (FLF) Brigade on 5 July.
  • Brigade Headquarters operational in summer 2024.
  • The first FLF Brigade Field Training Exercise (FTX) will occur from 4 – 17 November 2024.
  • Three CC-130J Hercules aircrafts with approximately 60 CAF members and a Tactical Air Detachment to be deployed with the Forward Land Forces Brigade in Latvia Summer 2024.
  • Starting in Summer 2024, Canada will deploy four Griffon helicopters as part of Op REASSURANCE and is planning to periodically deploy Chinooks helicopters in future years.

Key stats:

  • As of end April 2024, the Air Task Force Prestwick has delivered more than 18 million pounds of Canadian aid, as well as that of our Allies and partners, in support of Ukraine.

Details

Battle Group Latvia

  • As the Framework Nation for FLF in Latvia, Canada is responsible for coordinating with Latvia and the contributing nations to help set the tone, pace, and vision for this Battle Group, and for the Multinational Brigade structure.
  • Canada’s contribution is comprised of command and control, a mechanized infantry company, an artillery battery, a combat support company, and a combat service support company.
  • The FLF Battle Group works within the Latvian Armed Forces’ infantry brigade, conducting joint training to be able to respond effectively to an attack.
  • As of December 2023, the Battle Group is comprised of 10 contributing nations including Albania, Czechia, Iceland, Italy, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.
  • Over the coming months, this FLF Battle Group will be included in a broader Multinational FLF Brigade that Canada is working to operationalize while prioritizing infrastructure requirements with Latvia.
  • Canada has also committed a CAF general officer and eight staff officers to Multinational Division North, NATO’s Divisional Headquarters supporting the -FLF Battle Group.
  • The Forward Coordination Element (FCE) team augmented the existing Canadian National Command Element, Task Force Latvia in January 2023, and are planning and preparing for the integration of the Canadian-led Brigade into NATO Command and Control.
  • This includes planning for the movement of additional Canadian equipment and vehicles and developing a detailed infrastructure and basing plan to support the scaled-up capabilities of Battle Group Latvia.
  • The FCE will transition into a full headquarters as Canadian Army personnel deploy to Latvia in Summer 2024. In Fall of 2024, the Forward Land Forces Brigade will conduct its first Brigade collective training event and integrate into the NATO command structure.

Maritime Task Force

  • Since 2014, the CAF has deployed a warship on a persistent, rotational basis to be employed for exercises and operational tasks in the NATO Maritime Command’s areas of responsibility.
  • Canada will deploy the HMCS Charlottetown as the flagship of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2, from June 9, 2024 to mid-December 2024.
  • Canada will deploy two Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels to Standing NATO Mine Counter Measures Group from 1 July, 2024 to November 2024.

Air Task Force – Prestwick

  • Established in March 2022 and expanded in September 2022, Air Task Force – Prestwick is the main transport hub via which the CAF sustains various operations across the world, including CAF deployments in Central and Eastern Europe (Op REASSURANCE), the Middle East (Op IMPACT), and Africa. The Task Force also provides critical airlift capacity to support allies and is used to transport military aid donations within Europe.
  • The Task Force is comprised of three CC-130J Hercules aircraft and approximately 50 CAF personnel, who are responsible for maintenance, cargo movements, and administration.
  • As of end April 2024, the Task Force has delivered more than 18 million pounds of Canadian aid, as well as that of our Allies and partners, in support of Ukraine.

Equipment

  • Canada has finalized the procurement of Portable Anti-Armour Missile Systems– including missiles, simulators, and associated supports – from Rafael Advanced Defence Systems for our forces in Latvia. These modern anti-tank weapons will better equip our soldiers to confront threats from our adversaries’ main battle tanks, thus strengthening NATO’s deterrence posture.
  • Canada has deployed Medium Range Radar as part of the air defence capability for the Multinational Brigade. It will provide aerial surveillance for the brigade, as well as quickly and accurately identify air vehicles and munitions.
  • In February 2024, the Minister of National Defence announced that Canada will procure new air defence and anti-drone capabilities for the NATO Battle Group in Latvia. These have been designated an Urgent Operational Requirement.
    • Canada has finalized contracts with Saab Canada Inc. to procure the RBS 70 NG short-range Air Defence System which will enable Canadian troops to defend themselves against fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters within its range, close air support aircraft and Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). This represents a $227.5 million investment in Air Defence capability.
    • Canada is investing $46 million to acquire new counter-drone equipment. The project will deliver counter-UAS systems, command and control hardware and software, sensors, non-kinetic effectors, and in service support and training. Initial operational capability for this new equipment is expected late 2024.
  • Canada has also awarded $4.4 million dollars to IMT Defence (Ontario) and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems Canada (Quebec) to support efforts to modernize Canadian ammunition manufacturing.

Tanks

  • In June of 2023, the Government of Canada announced that it will deploy a Canadian Army Tank Squadron of 15 Leopard 2 tanks to bolster the Battle Group in Latvia, along with supporting personnel and equipment.
  • The full deployment of tanks, initial supporting personnel and equipment as part of Op REASSURANCE was completed in November 2023.
  • The full complement of approximately 130 personnel is in place.

Canadian Security Establishment

  • At the request of our Latvian allies, CSE’s Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) has deployed personnel to help defend against cyber threats on Latvia’s critical infrastructure and government networks. These deployments are part of a joint mission involving cyber security experts from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), the Cyber Centre, and its Latvian counterpart, CERT.LV.
  • Cyber Centre teams have deployed to Latvia a total of 6 times in a joint effort with the CAF and CERT.LV. The 2 deployments this year occurred in the fall of 2023 and early 2024, each lasting roughly 3 weeks. The teams conducted successful cyber threat hunting operations on the networks of Latvian government and critical infrastructure organizations and shared vital cyber defence information to keep the activities of sophisticated threat actors in check.
  • Over the course of these deployments, Cyber Centre personnel have helped to defend Latvia’s cyberspace by:
    • investigating cyber incidents
    • carrying out cyber threat hunting operations
    • identifying adversarial threat activity on critical networks
    • providing on-site tools and training
    • making recommendations
    • sharing best practices
    • improving cyber security coordination between Canada and our NATO allies
  • This joint mission has helped to defend a NATO ally from adversarial cyber threats.

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Operation UNIFIER (Ukraine)

  • Canada will continue to help empower Ukrainians with the skills they need to defend their nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
  • Which is why, through these Main Estimates, National Defence is requesting $65.2 million to support the extension of Operation UNIFIER.
  • This funding will support the over 300 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members who are currently carrying out training missions in the United Kingdom, Poland, and Latvia, and facilitating military aid delivery to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
  • This includes a range of training activities such as basic training, combat engineering, combat medic, as well as leadership development training to Ukrainian recruits.
  • In the last few months alone (between January and March of this year), our UK Element trained 1,092 members of the Security Forces of Ukraine, increasing their lethality, survivability and fighting abilities.
  • Between October and November 2023, UNIFIER’s Leopard Training Element wrapped up its efforts in the southwest of Poland, while the Maintenance Training Element successfully completed the delivery of training in the repair and maintenance of the M777 howitzer.
  • In addition, we are currently providing language training to Ukrainian candidates at the Canadian Forces Language School, to help them train and operate the F-16 fighter platform.
  • Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, approximately 7,000 members of the Ukrainian Armed Forces have received training under Op UNIFIER.
  • Taken together, Canada’s military contributions, including training, equipment and transport have been integral to Ukraine’s ongoing defence efforts.

Spending Details

Funding Request

  • In these Estimates, National Defence is requesting $65.2 million to support the extension of Operation UNIFIER.

How this funding will be spent:

  • Specifically, this new funding will be broken down against the following lines of operation:
    • $13.5M on Personnel Costs;
    • $266K on Military Vehicles (including fuel and spare parts);
    • $4.9M on Rental Vehicles;
    • $3.5M on Temporary Duty;
    • $19.5M on Real Life Support;
    • $1.7M for Communications (software licenses, cell phones, SIM cards;
    • $14.3M in Other Costs (linguists, bus service contract, training aids for courseware, heavy lift crane, forklift);
    • $733K for IT Equipment; and
    • $6.8M for Contingency.

Current state of Operation:

  • Current Training Missions:
    • United Kingdom – Recruit Training
      • Approximately 170 CAF personnel are deployed to the United Kingdom to train new Ukrainian military recruits in collaboration with the United Kingdom’s Operation INTERFLEX.
      • Training has been extended until March 2026.
    • Poland – Combat Medic Training
      • 13 CAF members are providing medical training.
    • Poland – Sapper Training
      • Approximately 55 CAF Combat Engineers are instructing Ukrainian sappers on basic and advanced engineering skills.
      • To date, the CAF has trained approximately 1,400 Ukrainian sappers.
    • Latvia – Junior Officer Leadership Development Training
      • Approximately 14 CAF members are working with the Latvian National Armed Forces to deliver Junior Officer leadership development training.
  • Assisting in bolstering Ukraine’s cyber defence capabilities, including the provision of 24/7 cyber security expertise, cyber threat intelligence, software tools and engineering solutions to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Upcoming deployments:

  • Op UNIFIER will stage a Relief in Place in early summer 2024 as the CAF rotates troops following their six-month deployments.

Key stats:

  • Since the start of Op UNIFIER in 2015, Canadian Armed Forces members have trained over 40,000 Ukrainian military and security personnel.
  • The CAF Air Mobility Detachment in Prestwick, UK, has transported over 16 million pounds of military aid since 2022, including aid from Allied and partner nations.

Details

  • The CAF has been providing the Security Forces of Ukraine (SFU) with specialized training in order to support their professionalization, help improve their capability and capacity, and assist them in their efforts to align with NATO standards and practices.
  • As the mission progressed, much of the direct training undertaken by CAF members transitioned to members of the SFU, with Canadians acting as advisors and mentors as well as assisting in the development of courses.
  • The Defence Team coordinates Canada’s military assistance to Ukraine, as well as helps oversee Allied and partner’s efforts to supply and equip the SFU through the Security Assistance Group-Ukraine (SAG-U).
    • Canada contributes 21 CAF members to the SAG-U, headquartered in Wiesbaden (Germany), including a Canadian Brigadier-General as the SAG-U Deputy Commanding General – Training.
  • All CAF members who deploy on capacity building programs, including under Op UNIFIER, are trained to recognize symbols associated with right-wing extremism.
    • If counterparts or trainees are suspected of holding racist views or belonging to right-wing extremist elements, including viewpoints that are contrary to Canadian values and ethics, they are removed immediately from the training course.

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Indo-Pacific Strategy (Operation HORIZON and Operation NEON)

  • Through both our Indo-Pacific Strategy, and most recently, Our North, Strong and Free, Canada recognizes that Indo-Pacific security will have an impact on our future prosperity and stability.
  • Which is why, in these Main Estimates, we are requesting $49.3 million to support Defence contributions to the Indo-Pacific Strategy through Operation HORIZON.
  • As set out in the Indo-Pacific Strategy, the Canadian Armed Forces are bolstering their presence – and their participation – across the region.
  • In fact, this year, the CAF will participate in multi-lateral exercises from the Philippines to Mongolia to Australia - across land, air, sea and cyber domains.
  • The majority of the funding that we are requesting through these Estimates will support our increased Naval presence, which will see three warships deployed to the region annually ($24.6M).
  • In fact, the HMCS Montréal is currently deployed to the Indo-Pacific, with HMCS Vancouver and HMCS Ottawa to follow in the summer and fall respectively.

If pressed on Royal Canadian Navy engagement in China:

  • Canada remains committed to promoting multilateralism and international law in the Indo-Pacific in support of a more stable, peaceful world.
  • That is why the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy participated in the Western Pacific Naval Symposium, a multilateral forum of 29 Navies, chaired by China this year.
  • The Symposium provides an opportunity to build trust and confidence between Navies and to discuss maritime issues of mutual interest.
  • Our participation is an important demonstration of Canada’s commitment to multilateralism and ensuring access to the high seas.

If pressed on AUKUS:

  • Canada remains fundamentally aligned with Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States on technological and strategic issues.
  • Canada is actively engaged in the research and development of advanced capabilities relevant to Pillar II of AUKUS, including autonomy and artificial intelligence (AI), cyber, undersea capabilities, hypersonics, electronic warfare and quantum technologies.
  • We are making targeted investments across these areas, both as part of our NORAD modernization efforts, and in support of Five Eyes and NATO efforts.
  • In addition, we are taking steps to ensure that we move forward at the same pace as close allies and partners in the development and use of advanced capabilities.
  • Going forward, we anticipate more opportunities to continue to partner with AUKUS members on advanced capability development.

If pressed on Canada-India defence relations:

  • As we implement the Indo-Pacific Strategy, our focus includes increased security cooperation with partners, enhanced engagement through regional training, exercises, and multilateral events.
  • Our defence relationship with India is mainly based on multinational exercises and defence engagements in which India also participates.
  • For example, in February 2024, the Canadian Armed Forces sent an observer to Exercise MILAN, a multilateral naval exercise hosted by India.

If pressed on Operation NEON and UN Panel of Experts:

  • Russia’s veto to end the mandate of the Panel of Experts is troubling and seeks to undermine the UN sanctions regime against North Korea; however, the sanctions themselves remain in place.
  • In this context, multinational sanctions monitoring activities are more important than ever.
  • Canada intends to continue contributing to these efforts through Operation NEON.

Operation Overview

  • Operation HORIZON is Canada’s forward-presence mission to the Indo-Pacific region to promote peace, stability, and the rules-based international order.
  • During this operation, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) contribute to implementing the defence elements of the Government of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) by increasing military activities and maintaining a persistent, meaningful presence in the Indo-Pacific that supports peace, security, and Canadian interests.
  • Operation NEON is Canada’s contribution to a coordinated multinational effort to support the implementation of United Nations Security Council sanctions imposed against North Korea.
  • Military ships, aircraft and personnel are deployed to conduct surveillance operations to identify maritime sanctions evasion activities, in particular ship-to-ship transfers of banned commodities.

Spending Details

Funding Request

  • In these Estimates, National Defence is requesting $49.3 million to strengthen Canada’s defence presence in the Indo-Pacific through Operation HORIZON.

How this funding will be spent:

  • Specifically, this new funding will be broken down against the following lines of operation:
    • $24.6M on Increased Naval Presence;
    • $13.9M on Capacity Building;
    • $9.7M on Military Exercises and Operations;
    • $623K on new defence positions across the Indo-Pacific; and
    • $512K on Strategic Cyber Initiatives.

Current State of Operation:

  • HMCS Montréal has set sail for the region and will operate in the area from late May through August 2024.
  • Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) will also participate in multilateral exercises such as BALIKATAN (Philippines), MARARA (France [French Polynesia]), and TEMPEST EXPRESS (Mongolia).
    • Exercise BALIKATAN is a joint exercise to enhance Command and Control skills and tactical interoperability, along with humanitarian civil assistance.
    • Exercise MARARA is a joint exercise to enhance operational level headquarters and deepen cooperation within a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief environment.
    • Exercise TEMPEST EXPRESS is a crisis response exercise to develop a cadre of military planners for employment in multinational headquarters.
  • The CAF will continue to conduct workshops with the Japanese Self-Defense Force regarding cyber incident response and force development.
    • Two workshops were already held in Japan (September 2023, March 2024) and one in Canada (April-May 2024).

Upcoming deployments:

  • Forward Naval Operations Serial 2 (August to November 2024): This will include port visits throughout the region and joint sails with allied and partner nations. The keystone activity will be participation in Ex KAKADU with Australia.
  • Forward Naval Operations Serial 3 (November 2024 to February 2025): This will include port visits throughout the region and joint sails with allied and partner nations. The keystone activity will be participation in Ex KEEN SWORD with Japan.
  • Participation in Australia’s Op RENDER SAFE in the Summer (Solomon Islands) and Fall (Tuvalu) of 2024.

Key stats:

  • Deployed one additional warship.
  • Deployed one Area Oil Refueler, Maritime Vessel ASTERIX, twice.
  • Deployed/employed over 900 DND/CAF personnel.
  • Participated in/observed multilateral operations/exercises with regional partners such as Australia, France, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, and Singapore.
  • Completed two Women Peace and Security activities, reaching 148 participants from Indo-Pacific countries.

Details

Indo-Pacific Strategy

  • Global Affairs Canada is the lead on Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, which was released on November 27, 2022.
  • The Strategy addresses five interconnected priorities for Canada, with promoting peace, resilience and security being the most applicable to National Defence.
  • Through the Indo-Pacific Strategy, National Defence is investing in the following initiatives to support the defence and security in the region over the next five years, including:
    • $369.4 million dollars to enhance our naval presence in the region and increase the number of warships deployed annually, from two to three;
    • $48.7 million dollars to increase the CAF’s participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises with regional allies and partners with all elements of the CAF, along with consistent naval deployments;
    • $68.2 million to launch a new Canadian-led military security cooperation program, offering mentorship and expertise by delivering training and equipment directly to partner forces in the region. Of this amount, $7.6 million is earmarked for Women, Peace, and Security programming in Southeast Asia.
    • $6.5M to establish four new full-time civilian positions across the region to enhance Canada’s regional understanding and deepen relationships with allies and partners; and
  • Defence will also play a key role in the whole-of-government cyber initiative of the Indo-Pacific Strategy ($2.6M) by bolstering military-to-military cyber cooperation and sharing information and lessons learned with select partners in the region.

CAF Operations in the Indo-Pacific:

  • March 2023: HMCS Montreal and MV Asterix departed Halifax to embark on forward naval presence operations in the region, conduct cooperative deployments with regional naval forces, and participate in international maritime exercises with partner nations.
  • Spring 2023: A CP-140 Aurora was deployed on Op NEON.
  • August 2023: HMCS Ottawa and Vancouver, along with MV Asterix, deployed to the Indo-Pacific region in support of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy on August 14, 2023. HMCS Ottawa focussed on Southeast Asia, while HMCS Vancouver focussed on Northeast Asia.
  • Fall 2023: A second CP-140 Aurora, as well as HMCS Vancouver, deployed in support of Op NEON.
  • Spring 2024: HMCS Montréal is deployed to the region under Op HORIZON and Op NEON (from 14 April to 22 October).
  • Summer 2024: HMCS Vancouverwill deploy to the region.
  • Fall 2024: HMCS Ottawa and a CP-140 will deploy to the region under Op HORIZON and Op NEON.

Operation PROJECTION and Operation HORIZON

  • Since 2017, the Royal Canadian Navy has achieved a near consistent presence in the Indo-Pacific under Op PROJECTION.
  • Canadian warships regularly deployed to the region to work with our allies and like-minded partners, including by conducting combined transits and exercises under Op PROJECTION.
  • In 2023, Canada deployed three warships to the Indo-Pacific, delivering on the commitment that Canada made when it launched its Indo-Pacific Strategy in fall 2022.
  • Op HORIZON replaced Op PROJECTION (Indo-Pacific) in summer 2023.
  • Through Op HORIZON, the CAF will continue implementing the defence pillars of the IPS, enabling Canada to become a more active, engaged, and reliable partner in the Indo-Pacific.

Operation NEON

  • Launched in 2019, Op NEON is Canada’s contribution to a coordinated multinational effort to monitor UN Security Council sanctions imposed against North Korea.
  • Op NEON sees military ships, aircraft and personnel deployed to conduct surveillance operations to identify maritime sanctions evasion activities, in particular ship-to-ship transfers of fuel and other commodities banned by the United Nations Security Council Resolutions.
    • [Note: On March 28, Russia vetoed the Security Council’s renewal of the Panel of Experts which monitors and reports on the implementation of the UN sanctions regime against the DPRK (the sanction regime itself remains intact). Canada and our Allies and partners are currently considering establishing alternative mechanisms to replace the Panel. There is no immediate impact on the mission and all partners remain committed to sanctions monitoring efforts.
  • Canada conducts these activities as part of a broader multinational initiative alongside partners in the Pacific Security Maritime Exchange (PSMX), which brings together Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States to disrupt North Korea’s illicit smuggling activities.
  • As part of Operation NEON, the CAF deploys a Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) Halifax-class frigate with a RCAF CH-148 Cyclone helicopter detachment, as well as a RCAF CP-140 Aurora long-range patrol aircraft with crew and supporting personnel on a rotational basis.
  • In March 2023, the Government of Canada announced the renewal of Op NEON until April 30, 2026.

Recent Indo-Pacific Operational Highlights

  • On March 26, 2023, HMCS Montréal deployed to the Indo-Pacific from Halifax; the first ship to do so from the East Coast.
  • HMCS Montréal operated extensively in Southeast and Northeast Asia and contributed to multinational efforts to monitor United Nations Security Council sanctions imposed on North Korea.
  • HMCS Montréal transited the Taiwan Strait with the US destroyer Chung-Hoon on June 3, 2023, as part of its routine activities in the region, in full accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the rules-based international order.
  • HMCS Ottawa and Vancouver, along with MV Asterix, deployed to the Indo-Pacific on August 14, 2023. HMCS Ottawa focused on Southeast Asia, while HMCS Vancouver focused on Northeast Asia (including in support of Op NEON).
  • On April 14, 2024, HMCS Montréal deployed to the Indo-Pacific from Halifax. This departure represents the first of three RCN warships that are annually deploying under Op HORIZON. Throughout the operation, HMCS Montréal will reinforce ties with international allies and strengthen relationships with like-minded nations by integrating with partner navies, participating in training exercises, and engaging in military and diplomatic cooperation.

United Nations Peacekeeping Memorandum of Understanding

  • On September 21, 2023, during the Canada-Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue, Canada signed a United Nations Peacekeeping Cooperation MOU, allowing the CAF to share expertise on UN peacekeeping operations and support UN peacekeeping education and training efforts, with Vietnam.
  • Under Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, Vietnam is a priority partner for military-to-military capacity building, including in the area of Women, Peace and Security.

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Operation ARTEMIS

  • In these Main Estimates, National Defence is requesting $23.9 million to support Canada’s contribution to the safety and security of key global shipping routes in the Indian Ocean under Operation ARTEMIS.
  • This includes Canada’s contribution of approximately 25 CAF personnel to the Combined Maritime Forces, the world’s largest multinational naval partnership.
  • In January 2024, Canada took command for the sixth time of Combined Task Force 150, which has a mandate to deter and disrupt criminal and terrorist activity in the Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea and Western Indian Ocean.
  • A command contingent of 15 Canadian Armed Forces personnel and one civilian are currently leading this Task Force, with support from the Australian, Bahraini and New Zealand Defence Forces.
  • Canada is also contributing personnel to Combined Task Forces 153 and 154, which support maritime security efforts in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and multinational maritime training, respectively.
  • These activities help ensure the security of some of the busiest and most important shipping lanes in the world, while working alongside key allies and non-traditional partners to address common threats.

If pressed on ship deployment to CTF 150:

  • Canada is proud to take command of Combined Task Force 150 for the sixth time.
  • Canada’s contributions to the Combined Maritime Forces are based on the coalition’s needs, as well as our own capabilities.
  • In addition to surface and air assets, Canada employs space-based intelligence assets in support of Combined Maritime Forces, which have been instrumental in the seizure of weapons bound for Yemen.
  • We continue to meet domestic and international security commitments, including by contributing command and leadership expertise to Combined Task Force 150.

Operation Overview

  • Op ARTEMIS is the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) contribution to the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the world’s largest naval partnership (43 member nations), working to support the rules-based international order in the Middle East.
  • Op ARTEMIS counters illicit non-state actors on the high seas and promoting security, stability, and prosperity across over seven million square kilometers of international waters.

Spending Details

Funding Request

  • In these Estimates, National Defence is requesting $23.9 million to support Operation ARTEMIS.

How this funding will be spent:

  • This funding will be used to support activities under Op ARTEMIS such as, personnel costs ($7.6M), aircraft operations ($491K), aircraft sustainment ($1.3M), and communications ($77K).
  • Note, due to the timing of the financial cycle, the Op ARTEMIS funding request was put forward before all operational requirements could be finalized.  

Current state of Operation:

  • Canada is currently contributing approximately 24 CAF personnel to Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) task forces, including through:
    • The Command of CTF 150;
    • The Deputy Command of CTF 154 (multinational maritime security enhancement training); and,
    • The deployment of staff officers to Op YUKON LIGHTNING/PROSPERITY GUARDIAN, an operation launched under CTF 153 (maritime security in the Red Sea).

Key Statistics:

  • Command of CTF 150 rotates among partner nations. This is the sixth time Canada has commanded the task force, the last time having been from January to July 2021.
  • CTF 150’s area of responsibility includes some of the world’s busiest shipping lanes and spans over five million square kilometers, covering the Gulf of Oman and North Arabian Sea.

Details

  • Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) is comprised of five distinct Combined Task Forces (CTF) that are led by partner nations on a rotational basis, each with a different area of focus: 
    • CTF 150 is responsible for maritime security and counterterrorism across the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, and the Western Indian Ocean.
    • As of 17 January 2024, Captain (Navy) Colin Matthews of the Royal Canadian Navy assumed command of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150) during a change of command ceremony in Bahrain.
    • CTF 151 is responsible for counterpiracy across the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea and Western Indian Ocean.
    • CTF 152 is responsible for security and cooperation in the Arabian Gulf.
    • CTF 153 is responsible for maritime security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
    • CTF 154 is responsible for leading multinational maritime training with CMF member nations and regional partners.
  • Canada is currently contributing approximately 25 CAF personnel to CMF and its task forces, including command of CTF 150, Deputy Commander of CTF 154, as well as three staff officers to Operation PROSPERITY GUARDIAN under CTF 153.

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Operation IMPACT (Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon)

  • Canada is committed to ensuring the stability of the Middle East by working alongside our NATO Allies and partners under Op IMPACT.
  • Which is why, National Defence is requesting $33.7 million in these Main Estimates to support the extension and consolidation of Operation IMPACT from March 31, 2023, to March 31, 2025.
  • This extension will allow the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to continue to play an important role in Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon alongside our Allies and partners.
  • In Jordan, for example, the CAF are strengthening the capacity of military institutions, as well as helping the Jordanian Armed Forces secure their border with Syria against security threats.
  • This includes supporting initiatives to enhance the role of women within the Jordanian military.
  • For instance, the Canadian Armed Forces has a mobile training team embedded within Jordan’s Female Engagement Team, as well as at the Military Women’s Training Centre, and have also built accommodations for the Female Engagement Team.
  • Meanwhile, the CAF have helped train over 4,500 Iraqi Security Force members through Operation Inherent Resolve and NATO Mission – Iraq since 2014, helping Iraq keep its territory and its people secure.
  • Ultimately, Canada’s military contributions are enhancing the security and stabilization of Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon, and setting the conditions for long-term success in the region.

Project Overview

Funding Request:

  • In these Estimates, National Defence is requesting $33.7 million to support the extension and consolidation of Operation IMPACT until 31 March 2025.

How this funding will be spent:

  • Specifically, this new funding of $31.7 million (Vote 1) and $2 million (Vote 5) will be broken down against the following lines of operation:
    • $6.3M for personnel costs;
    • $11.7M for housing, feeding and supporting personnel;
    • $50K for military vehicle operating and maintenance costs;
    • $1.5M for rental vehicles;
    • $11M for general operating costs including maintenance of Iraq Headquarters and Operational Support Hub Southwest Asia, other contracted services and contingency costs;
    • $1.2M (Vote 1) and $592 thousand (Vote 5) in communications and IT equipment and services;
    • $1.3M in infrastructure projects including centralized power plant and fire detection upgrades; and
    • $102K for Commercial Patterned Armoured Vehicles.

Current state of Operation:

  • Up to 150 Canadian Armed Forces personnel are participating in this mission on an ongoing basis.
  • 15 Canadian Armed Forces personnel are embedded with NATO Mission Iraq (NMI).

Upcoming deployments:

  • A routine rotation of troops is scheduled for May/June 2024 with up to 150 personnel.

Key stats:

  • Trained forces by Canada since 2014:
    • 4,500 Iraqi Security Force members;
    • Over 3,800 members of the Lebanese Armed Forces; and
    • 440 members of the Jordanian Armed Forces.

Details

  • Through Operation IMPACT, the CAF will continue to conduct the following activities:
    • Providing support to the Global Coalition and NATO;
    • Conducting episodic air operations in support of the Coalition and NATO Mission Iraq (including tactical airlift);
    • Providing intelligence support to operations;
    • Supporting bilateral regional capacity-building in Jordan and Lebanon; and
    • Supporting capacity-building and security sector reform in Iraq.

Allegations of Human Rights Violations

  • In September 2018, Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel who were training Iraqi Security Forces members were shown videos of potential war crimes in which some of the Iraqi trainees may have participated.
  • Some of the CAF personnel reported their concerns to their chain of command. Media reports from May/June 2021 detailed the efforts by some members to determine what actions were taken in response to their reports. 
  • The Canadian Forces National Investigation Service conducted an investigation, which revealed no evidence of negligent performance of duties, inappropriate conduct nor other offences by the CAF leadership present based upon the information available to them at that time. During the course of the investigation, there was no evidence found to support Code of Service Discipline or Criminal Code of Canada charges.

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