Continental defence modernization: a pressing need

The events of the past year have generated considerable interest about North American security, space, and Canada’s role in supporting global peace and security through its allies. Ukraine’s ongoing fight for its existence provides many insights into the challenges of contemporary warfare. This battlefield includes conventional combat, early warning and interception of cruise missile and hypersonic missile attacks, the use of small commercially sourced drones, information and cyber operations, and using space systems to supplement communications networks. For Canada’s national security and continental defence, advanced missiles threats and threats to space infrastructure are clear concerns. Jordan Miller is the marketing lead (global defence) for Calian Group. He is also the vice-chair of the Public Policy and Advocacy Committee for Space Canada. Handout photograph In June 2022, National Defence Minister Anita Anand announced plans for Canada to proceed with continental defence modernization. This announcement included commitments to modernize surveillance systems for the Northern approaches to North America, improve surveillance of space and from space, modernize infrastructure, and improve the command and control networks that enable the passage of information to support decision-making. Canadian companies welcomed this news, seeing the opportunity to deliver innovative, leading-edge solutions for Canada’s defence and national security. However, these programs should be a greater priority and should be accelerated. Accelerating and prioritizing continental defence modernization will provide many benefits for Canada. First, by investing in new capabilities, we will be able to provide an enhanced commitment to NORAD and improve our contribution to the security and safety of North America. Between January and February 2023, as many as four objects—including a balloon and nondescript cylindrical and octagonal shaped objects—entered North American airspace and were intercepted by fighter aircraft. These are not the only threats to Canada’s airspace. The minister pointed to the threat of hypersonic and advanced cruise missiles. The threat of hostile aircraft and ships—especially as arctic ice cover melts more each decade—are familiar and could increase. All of these threats to Canada’s sovereignty—from known, current threats to emerging and future threats—exist simultaneously. Prioritizing continental defence modernization will improve our defences against these threats. Second, space is increasingly being used by states and private companies, creating challenges for its future use. It is well-known that space is becoming increasingly “congested, contested and competitive.” This has real implications for our nation and our allies. Improving Canada and NORAD’s situational awareness of space is vital to understanding the potential threats that exist beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Space capabilities are so embedded in our daily lives that they are taken for granted. The banking system, GPS navigation, air traffic control, your cell phone, imagery photos, and much more all depend on space capabilities. The dividing line between military and civilian capabilities in space is becoming increasingly blurry, underlining the need for improved situational awareness in space. The war in Ukraine serves as a highly relevant reminder. Hostile actors have the capability to disrupt satellites and their connections to Earth. Part of the continental defence modernization program includes improving surveillance of space; a much needed capability. Continental defence modernization plans include a range of important capabilities that will improve Canada’s ability to detect threats to the maritime and aerospace approaches to North America. The increasing use of space means an increase in the overall potential threats to North American sovereignty. The programs included for continental defence modernization are the right ones. However, in light of recent developments in the threat landscape, these programs should be prioritized and accelerated. Jordan Miller is the marketing lead (global defence) for Calian Group. He is also the vice-chair of the Public Policy and Advocacy Committee for Space Canada. The Hill Times

Continental defence modernization: a pressing need

The programs included for continental defence modernization are the right ones. However, in light of recent developments in the threat landscape, these programs should be prioritized and accelerated.

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Continental defence modernization: a pressing need

The programs included for continental defence modernization are the right ones. However, in light of recent developments in the threat landscape, these programs should be prioritized and accelerated.

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