OTTAWA — Canada's military is set to take a bigger role in the North over the next two decades as climate change and increasingly aggressive foes threaten Arctic sovereignty.
In all, the"Our North, Strong and Free" defence policy will allocate another $73 billion over the next 20 years.$9.5 billion to ramp up production of new artillery ammunition in Canada and buy up rounds for our own stockpile.$2.7 billion to purchase long-range missiles for the Army. $1.4 billion for specialized maritime sensors that can detect missiles, underwater systems, ships and submarines.$2.8 billion for a new Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command.
$5.5 billion to buy a comprehensive worldwide satellite communication capability that ensures adversaries can't jam or disrupt communications.$9.9 billion to extend the life of the Halifax-class frigates and at-sea replenishment capabilities.— Ground-based air defence systems to protect against drones, missiles and artillery.— Submarines, which will be conventionally powered and capable of performing under the ice.— All-terrain vehicles that are adapted to the ice, snow and tundra.