‘Canada does not simply have a defence spending problem. We have a defence procurement and execution problem,’ writes Peter MacKay. / MCINNES COOPER PHOTO
Canada must accelerate military procurement, strengthen domestic defence manufacturing and hold government accountable for delivering equipment rather than simply announcing spending commitments, says former defence minister Peter MacKay.
In a Financial Post op-ed, MacKay calls for predictable procurement schedules, clearer requirements, faster decisions and stronger oversight. He also suggests legislation to prevent partisan interference in military purchases and urges Ottawa to balance domestic production with partnerships among trusted allies.
“Canada does not simply have a defence spending problem. We have a defence procurement and execution problem,” he writes.
MacKay welcomeed the federal government's commitment to rebuilding the Canadian Armed Forces but warns increased funding alone will not resolve longstanding delays.
He questioned whether the proposed Defence Investment Agency, to be established as a Crown corporation through Bill C-40, will improve procurement outcomes.
“A new structure may help, but creating an agency or reorganizing departments is not, in itself, reform,” he said. “The important questions are practical. Will decisions be made faster? … And, most importantly, will equipment reach the women and men, the end users, who need it most before it is too late?”
He pointed to the acquisition of 88 F-35 fighter jets as an example of procurement challenges.
“Canada must also take its Arctic responsibilities seriously. As the region becomes more accessible due to opening waters and strategically contested, we need the infrastructure, surveillance, communications and military presence to protect our sovereignty. That includes autonomous sub-sea, aerial and satellite systems of which Canada has current manufacturing capability,” he wrote.
Although Canada must expand domestic manufacturing, he acknowledged continued dependence on international suppliers, noting that approximately 70% of vital military equipment comes from the United States.
“A sensible approach must balance building Canadian capacity, partnering with trusted allies and buying what is needed when it is needed,” he wrote.
He added: “The investments now being contemplated are necessary, but they must be accompanied by disciplined execution, transparent accountability and a willingness to confront the institutional barriers that have held us back for decades. ... Canada needs more than promises. We need results.”
