Canada’s Defence Minister, David McGuinty, has already stated that Canada would be “unlikely” to join such a pact as AUKUS. This development comes despite Canada’s previous intention to go all-in on the pact’s second pillar, which focuses on improved technology cooperation between member countries. Canada is increasing its defence spending at a historic level. At the same time, domestically, the country is actively pursuing international defence partnerships.
Canada had already been gung-ho about the idea of AUKUS, especially for the collaboration on technological innovation. McGuinty made it clear that the nation is not seeking accession in AUKUS at this time. Rather, Canada seems primarily focused on internal defence and building defence partnerships not linked to the United States.
Defence Spending and NATO Commitments
Like Japan, over the last few years, Canada has doubled down on future defence spending. The country has a goal of 5 percent of GDP by the mid-2020s, in line with NATO aspirations. This ambitious plan is a testament to the country’s awareness of changing global security threats and the need for strong military preparedness.
McGuinty stated that even as these challenges are being tackled, it’s vital to protect Canadian sovereignty. He noted, “We’re doing what we have to do to keep ourselves and our people safe.” The expanded budget would achieve much more than just strengthening Canada’s military capabilities, but would serve to pursue the diversification of its defence supply chains.
Strategic Partnerships Beyond the US
Canada’s recently released defence strategy explicitly prioritizes strengthening Canada’s relationships with non-US suppliers. While it maintains deep military ties with the United States, McGuinty highlighted key differences in Canada’s relationship with the US compared to Australia’s. He stated, “We have a relationship on a continental basis with the United States, which is different than perhaps Australia’s because you don’t live up against the US.”
Canada has signed on to a major European Union defense procurement program. Today, though, it intends to procure replacement conventionally powered submarines from South Korea or a German-Norwegian joint offer. These moves indicate Canada’s intention to broaden its defence partnerships and create more distance from its reliance on US military supplies.
Ongoing Collaborations and Future Prospects
In addition to diversifying its defence relationships, Canada recently entered a $6.5 billion deal with Australia to procure the over-the-horizon Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) system. The conclusion of this transaction is a notable milestone in strengthening Canada’s defence capabilities and international partnership.
Talks about Canada joining AUKUS have already occurred, with Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. In doing so, McGuinty was clear putting the final word on Canada’s lack of interest in joining the pact — at least for now. It’s an idea we have not chased after so far. We’ll see where it lands,” he remarked.
McGuinty remains optimistic about Canada’s future defence initiatives, stating, “So this is where we’re going first. This is what we’re focusing on first, and we’re building bridges and we’re excited to be here for it.”
