A defence reality check for the Canadian Armed Forces

In having more mixed firepower capacity, the CAF can conduct more precision strikes, alongside extended barrages needed to sustain attritional combat operations over months or even years.

National Defence Minister David McGuinty. Getting the firepower the Canadian Armed Forces needs without bankruptcy is the defence reality check Ottawa can no longer avoid, writes Andrew Erskine. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY ANDREW ERSKINE

February 18, 2026

Ottawa is hastily moving forward to rearm the Canadian Armed Forces with modernized firepower by investing millions of dollars in long-range, precision-strike capabilities as well as advanced short- and medium-range land, sea, and air-launched missile capabilities.

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