February 17, 2026
RED FM News Desk
The Canadian government’s long-anticipated defence industrial strategy was formally unveiled Tuesday, positioning domestic arms production and economic growth at the centre of the country’s national security plans.
The strategy, introduced by Prime Minister Mark Carney in Montreal, comes as the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump pushes to make the United States the primary arms supplier for allied nations.
In development for more than a year, the new framework aims to use defence spending as a catalyst for strengthening Canada’s economy, expanding domestic manufacturing and creating jobs. It sets out ambitious targets for the next decade, including a commitment to buy and maintain the majority of Canada’s military equipment at home.
“Defending Canada means more than the size of our military,” Carney said during the announcement. “It also means the strength of our industries, the resilience of our economy and our capacity to act independently when it matters most. Our national security and our economic security go hand in hand.”
The strategy outlines plans to bolster Canadian defence companies, support small and medium-sized businesses in entering the sector and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. By prioritizing domestic procurement and maintenance, the government hopes to ensure greater sovereignty over military capabilities while stimulating economic growth.
The announcement arrives at a time of shifting geopolitical dynamics and heightened pressure on allies to increase defence spending and align procurement with U.S. industry. Ottawa’s new approach signals a desire to balance international partnerships with a stronger domestic industrial base.
Further details on funding allocations, timelines and procurement priorities are expected in the coming months as the government moves to implement the strategy.
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