New defence policy supports Canadian aerospace innovation, industrial capability

une 7, 2017 (Ottawa, Ontario) – Today the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, announced the government’s new defence policy. The policy sets a path forward for Canada’s security and armed forces for the next twenty years, including a significant long-term increase to the defence budget, a focus on supporting innovation in Canada’s defence sector, and an acknowledgement of the strategic importance of space-related capabilities to Canada’s long-term sovereignty and security.

“We commend the government for making servicemen and women and their families a priority. We are also pleased to see the government’s recognition that supporting innovation and partnership with industry are essential to the safety and security of our nation. We congratulate Minister Sajjan, officials at the Department of National Defence, and the Defence Policy Review advisory board for their hard work,” said Jim Quick, President & CEO of AIAC. “AIAC and its members stand ready to continue the partnership that exists between industry and government, for the benefit of our armed forces, their families, and all Canadians.”

Measures impacting the Canadian aerospace industry include:

• Significant new defence procurements over the short and long term, including:
  • 88 new advanced fighter aircraft
  • Next generation multi-mission aircraft (CP-140 replacement)
  • Next generation air-to-air tanker-transport
  • Replacement of utility transport aircraft
  • Range of remotely piloted systems
  • Replacement of the current RADARSAT system
  • Acquisition of other space-based capabilities, including global satellite communications, surveillance of space, and ISR
• Acknowledgement that an effective and innovative defence sector is critical to achieving the Department of National Defence’s (DND’s) mission, and a commitment to specific engagement measures that will foster continued partnership with industry
• Introduction of a new initiative, IDEaS, to foster private sector innovation in the defence sector
• Commitment to streamlining the defence procurement process
• Commitment to publish a Defence Investment Plan in 2018, with further installments every three years thereafter

“The passion and commitment of senior defence officials and military officers was clear in all of the briefings and discussions that have led to today. They clearly believe in this new policy and are already working to see it put into practice,” added Mr. Quick.

Associated Links:

Government of Canada News Release
Canada’s Defence Policy – Home page
Canada’s Defence Policy – PDF report

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