What will it take to defend Canada? Experts say party platforms miss the target

As the election approaches, there is a competitive edge to the defence policies of both the Liberals and the Conservatives. However, a trio of national security and military experts have highlighted a key issue that seems to be overlooked by both parties – the need for Canada to defend itself independently from the United States.

Both the Conservatives and the Liberals have unveiled their defence plans, with a focus on Arctic sovereignty, military recruitment, and new equipment acquisitions. While there is a sense of consensus on certain proposals, such as meeting NATO’s two per cent GDP defence spending target by 2030, there is a glaring omission in addressing the fundamental national security issue at stake – how to defend Canada without relying on or potentially facing opposition from the United States.

The experts point out that the current NATO commitments may soon become outdated, with allies expected to approve higher thresholds for defence investment at the upcoming summit in June. This raises the question of whether Canada is prepared to defend itself in the absence of a reliable ally like the United States.

Despite the similarities in their defence policies, the parties have avoided addressing this uncomfortable reality. Instead, they focus on specific equipment acquisitions and infrastructure upgrades, rather than tackling the larger geopolitical challenges facing the country.

University of Calgary defence expert Rob Huebert emphasizes the need for Canada to take a serious approach to national defence, especially in the face of a potentially untrustworthy America, an aggressive Russia, and a powerful China. While the parties have shied away from addressing this issue head-on, Huebert believes that it is crucial for the next prime minister to prioritize national security and take decisive action.

The experts are skeptical about how many of the promises made by the parties will actually be implemented if they are elected. They stress the importance of political will in driving real change in Canada’s defence policy, highlighting the need for leaders to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete steps to protect the country.

In conclusion, while the defence policies of the Liberals and Conservatives may showcase a competitive spirit, they fall short of addressing the fundamental national security issue at stake. As Canadians head to the polls, it is essential to consider how each party plans to defend the country independently and ensure its security in an increasingly complex global landscape.