US Threats Mean Canada Must Strengthen Military, Candidates Say

As the geopolitical landscape shifts, with the election of Donald Trump and ongoing US-Canada trade disputes, Canadian political candidates are emphasizing the need to strengthen the country's military. The recent election of Trump has brought about significant changes in US-Canada relations, with tariff threats and accusations of lax borders causing concern in Canada. In response, some Canadian political candidates are advocating for increased military spending and procurement to bolster the country's defence capabilities.



One of the key arguments for strengthening Canada's military is the need to meet NATO's 2% GDP target for defence spending. Currently, Canada spends approximately 1.4% of its GDP on defence, falling short of the NATO target. Increasing defence spending to meet this target could bring about several economic and strategic benefits, such as enhanced military capabilities, job creation, and strengthened continental and Arctic defence. However, it is essential to weigh these potential benefits against the costs and political implications of such a move.

Increasing defence spending could also have implications for Canada's defence industry and its relationship with key allies, particularly the United States. Canada's military modernization efforts, such as the Indirect Fires Modernization (IFM) program, present opportunities for Canadian defence companies to compete for contracts and foster collaboration with US defence companies. Strengthening defence cooperation with the United States could also enhance Canada's strategic partnerships and influence in global affairs.

However, increasing defence spending and defence cooperation with the United States could also provoke retaliation from other countries, such as Russia or China, leading to increased geopolitical tensions. Additionally, rapidly increasing military spending could strain the defence industry, leading to supply chain issues, increased costs, or reduced quality.

In conclusion, the election of Donald Trump and ongoing US-Canada trade disputes have highlighted the need for Canada to strengthen its military capabilities. Increasing defence spending to meet NATO's 2% GDP target could bring about several economic and strategic benefits, but it is essential to weigh these against the potential costs and political implications. Canada's defence industry and relationship with key allies, particularly the United States, could also be impacted by increased defence spending and military modernization efforts. A balanced approach that considers the broader economic, social, and geopolitical context is necessary to ensure that Canada's defence policy aligns with its national interests and values.