Statement from the Minister of National Defence on the 65^th Anniversary of the Creation of NORAD

May 12, 2023 – Ottawa – National Defence/Canadian Armed Forces

The Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Anita Anand, issued the following statement today to recognize the 65^th anniversary of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD):

“On this day in 1958, Canada and the United States formalized the North American Air Defense Command Agreement, leading to the creation of NORAD—our bi-national military command tasked with protecting North American airspace.

“The collaboration between Canadians and Americans through NORAD is unique and unparalleled. During my visit to NORAD facilities last year with Prime Minister Trudeau and United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, I saw first-hand how Canadian and American armed forces members work hand-in-hand to defend North America and keep our citizens safe.

“This is a military relationship like no other—one based on common values, friendship, and an unbreakable bond. Our two nations share the responsibility of monitoring and defending millions of square kilometres of airspace and coastline, protecting our citizens on both sides of the border. Over its 65-year history, NORAD has adapted to new threats, including receiving a maritime warning mission alongside its existing aerospace warning and control missions in 2006.

“Our partnership took on renewed relevance earlier this year when several unauthorized aerial objects were detected in North American airspace. NORAD tracked and monitored each of these objects, including the confirmed high-altitude surveillance balloon from the People’s Republic of China. In addition, NORAD fighter aircraft took down an unidentified object flying over Yukon. This was the first time that NORAD was called upon to engage a target in North American airspace during its 65-year existence.

“In an era of geopolitical uncertainty and of evolving technology, NORAD’s mission has become even more important. As we face new and emerging threats to the international rules that keep us safe, we must ensure that our binational military command remains effective and prepared to take on the threats of today and tomorrow.

“This is why Canada is investing $38.6 billion towards NORAD modernization over the next 20 years. We are committed to working closely with our United States partners to maximize the impact of these investments. Canada is also investing in a new fleet of 88 F-35 fighter jets to keep Canadians safe and contribute to NORAD operations.

“I sincerely thank members of the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as the United States military, for their continued partnership and dedication to safeguarding North America. For 65 years, we have shared the watch, and I know we will continue to accomplish great things together as we look towards the future.”

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