Feds announced $3B in defence-related investments across Atlantic Canada

While announcing more than $3 billion in infrastructure and defence-related investments across Atlantic Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney also revealed that Canada has achieved the NATO two per cent defence expenditure target. Additonaly, the government will now work towards NATO’s new target of 3.5 per cent on core defence spending and an additional 1.5 per cent of GDP on defence and security-related investments by 2035.

“In moments of crisis, when people see the Maple Leaf on a sleeve, they see hope. They get help. Canada’s new government made a promise to rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces – and we’re getting it done. In this more fractured and darker world, Canadian leadership will be defined not just by the strength of our values, but also by the value of our strength. The Canadian Armed Forces are the foundation of the strength on which we are building Canada strong and free,” said Carney.

“Reaching the 2% benchmark is a foundational step in renewing Canada’s defence and a clear statement of resolve in a more dangerous world. Over the past year, we have made sustained investments in our people, our readiness, and the capabilities the Canadian Armed Forces need to defend this country. These efforts are strengthening Canada at its core – protecting our sovereignty, securing our continent, and reinforcing our role among Allies. At its heart, this is about trust: that Canadians can rely on their country to be ready, resilient, and prepared for what lies ahead,” added David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence.

In Nova Scotia, there will be targeted investments to modernize critical infrastructure, build new facilities and expand training and operational capacity:

• $1.2 billion to modernise critical power and municipal service infrastructure at CFB Halifax Dockyard and Stadacona – upgrading essential services and facilities to ensure the base has sufficient power and utilities to support new capabilities and future naval operations.
• $648 million to construct two new aviation support facilities at 14 Wing Greenwood – supporting the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CP-8A Poseidon fleet and CQ-9B Guardian with modern hangars, maintenance, and operational infrastructure.
• Over $180 million to build the Combatant Training and Integration Centre – supporting training, operations, and integration for the Royal Canadian Navy’s future river-class destroyers.
• $82.5 million to acquire Halifax Gate – a 475-acre waterfront industrial site that will support current and future Royal Canadian Navy operations, including the movement of personnel, ships, and supplies.
• $60 million for a new, 140-unit apartment complex for Canadian Armed Forces members, near 12 Wing Shearwater – because every member of our Armed Forces deserves a safe, high-quality place to call home.

In New Brunswick, more than $1 billion in investments will be made in the CFB Gagetown Range and Training Area – introducing new ground-based air defence systems. $20.2 million will also be invested to upgrade transition centres at CFB Gagetown.

“Atlantic Canada has always punched above its weight when it comes to defending Canada, at home and abroad. For the first time since the Cold War, Canada is making the kind of investment our military needs. Here in Nova Scotia, that means good jobs, growing industries, and a defence sector that continues to lead. I’m proud of the men and women who serve, and of the communities here that stand behind them,” said Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

Featured image: (Government of Canada)