Question Period Note: NORAD Modernization

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About

Reference number:
DND-2022-QP-00028
Date received:
Jun 20, 2022
Organization:
National Defence
Name of Minister:
Anand, Anita (Hon.)
Title of Minister:
Minister of National Defence

Issue/Question:

Threats to North America are increasing. What is being done to modernize NORAD?

Suggested Response:

  • Canada is committed to ensuring our safety and contributing to the security of our shared continent.

  • That is why, we are immediately investing $4.9 billion over six years to modernize NORAD, as part of approximately $40 billion investment over 20 years.

  • This investment will bolster our continental defences, and, to protect Canadians from new and emerging threats.

  • We will also create a fund to enable Indigenous partners to meaningfully engage with National Defence as we move forward with these initiatives.

  • We have already launched this dialogue and we will continue to collaborate with Indigenous, Provincial, and Territorial partners throughout implementation.

  • We will also work closely with our American allies to ensure our efforts are aligned and complementary as we adapt to evolving security challenges.

If pressed on participating in the US Ballistic Missile Defence System:

  • The Government’s decision not to participate in the US Ballistic Missile Defence System has not changed.

Background:

Quick Facts

  • On June 20, 2022 National Defence announced $4.9 billion over six years in new funding to enhance continental defence. This is part of $38.6 billion over 20 years for new capabilities.

  • Budget 2022: A total $8 billion new funding over five years—on top of planned increases associated with Strong, Secure, Engaged, including:

    • $6.1 billion for continental defense, commitments to our allies, investments in equipment.

    • Defence Policy Review: a review to allow Canada to update its existing defence policy.

  • Budget 2021 announced $252.2 million over five years to support NORAD modernization and continental defence. This initial investment will support:

    • Research and development of cutting-edge technologies related to all-domain awareness and command, control, and communications in our northern approaches.

    • Sustainment of the joint Canada-United States North Warning System until new suitable solutions are in place.

    • Modernization of long-range communications capabilities critical to Canadian Armed Forces operations in remote regions of Canada, including in the Arctic.

Additional Information:

Responsible Principals: Assistant Deputy Minister (Policy)