June 19, 2025 | Washington, D.C.
On Thursday, June 19, Rear-Admiral Kristjan Monaghan, Canada’s Defence Attaché to the United States, welcomed Defence Attachés from Allied and partners, representing the diplomatic and defence community in Washington, D.C., to the Embassy of Canada for a briefing on Canada’s new defence investments.
On June 9, Canada announced a significant investment of over CAD $9.3 billion in the Canadian Armed Forces. This new funding builds on the significant commitments outlined in Canada’s defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free (ONSAF), that was released last year, as well as previous commitments to NORAD modernization. These investments will strengthen Canada’s sovereignty and security, enhance our capacity to protect the rules-based international order, and contribute meaningfully to North American and Allied security.
Setting the stage
“In a world facing growing instability and complexity, it is essential for Canada to remain ready in order to safeguard its population, uphold its sovereignty, and contribute to collective security,” noted Rear-Admiral Monaghan in his opening remarks. “Readiness also means staying engaged internationally and helping to support a stable, rules-based global environment. Meeting these challenges requires a clear understanding of current realities and a commitment to the capabilities needed to respond effectively.”
A Timely Conversation
The briefing took place just days after the G7 Summit concluded in Kananaskis, Alberta, and shortly before the NATO Summit in The Hague on June 24 and 25, where Allies will meet to address the challenges facing the Alliance and further strengthen NATO’s deterrence and defence.
Reaching the 2% Benchmark
With this funding, Canada will reach NATO’s defence spending benchmark of 2% of GDP this fiscal year. This milestone reflects more than a spending target. It signals Canada’s long-term commitment to defending its sovereignty, contributing to the security of North America security, and standing with its Allies.
A Force That’s Ready for Today’s Challenges
Canada is investing in the core elements of military readiness, including:
The CAF is also accelerating the acquisition of critical capabilities, including counter-drone systems, Arctic surveillance tools, ammunition production, and new vehicles like Armoured Combat Support Vehicles and Light Armoured Vehicles.
Deepening Defence and Industry Partnerships
Canada recognizes the importance of strategic defence relationships. The current security environment requires close coordination with trusted partners, and Canada is committed to strengthening those ties.
Domestically, new defence spending will also support Canada’s industrial base. A stronger, more resilient defence industry will better equip the CAF and ensure that Canada remains a reliable contributor to global defence supply chains.
Learn More
More information on Canada’s new defence investments is available here.