Canada’s Security Is on the Line—It’s Time for a Real Debate

As Canada heads into a federal election, one issue remains dangerously under-discussed: our national security and military preparedness. Despite mounting global threats and a struggling Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), political leaders have yet to commit to a meaningful, public debate on how they will address these challenges.

A new petition launched by the Conference of Defence Associations (CDA) Institute is calling for exactly that—a special leaders’ debate on sovereignty, national security, and defense. And Canadians are responding. The petition is gaining momentum, averaging three new signatories per minute in the past hour after launch, with high quality signatories including former Chiefs of the Defence Staff, former Commanders of the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Army, diplomats, scholars, and industry leaders. The demand for action is clear.

The Growing Security Crisis

Canada’s security landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years. The re-emergence of great power competition, threats to Arctic sovereignty, and increasing pressure from NATO allies to meet defense spending commitments underscore the urgent need for a well-equipped and operational military.

Yet the reality is bleak. The CAF is short 13,600 personnel. Internal Department of National Defence documents reveal that nearly half of its equipment is unserviceable. Procurement delays continue to undermine military readiness, and successive governments have failed to move with the speed and urgency required. Simply put, Canada is unprepared for modern threats.

The increased use of the CAF for domestic crises – floods, wildfires, and pandemic response – has further stretched an already depleted force. While the military continues to serve Canadians in times of need, this growing reliance exposes a dangerous reality: the CAF lacks the resources to fulfill its core defense mandate while also responding to civil emergencies.

The Political Divide

As the 2025 federal election nears, both the Liberals and Conservatives have outlined distinct plans to revitalize Canada’s defense posture. Both major parties acknowledge the need for increased defense spending, but their approaches differ. The Conservative Party has pledged to meet NATO’s 2% defense spending target by allocating future trade revenue to the military, establishing a permanent military base in Iqaluit, and doubling the size of the Canadian Rangers to 4,000 members. They have also committed to adding two armed heavy icebreakers for the Royal Canadian Navy, and continuing Liberal initiatives such as NORAD modernization and submarine acquisition.

The Liberal Party has similarly committed to reaching the NATO 2% spending target by 2030. Their plan includes investing over $6 billion in missile detection systems, allocating $420 million to expand year-round Arctic military presence, and introducing drone capabilities to defend undersea infrastructure. The Liberals have also promised new submarines, fleets of drones, additional icebreakers, and a review of the F-35 fighter jet program. They have pledged to modernize recruitment, address the 14,500-member personnel shortfall, and improve pay, housing, and family services for military members.

Yet, despite these promises, there has been no direct engagement between party leaders on how Canada will restore military readiness and meet its international commitments. The last time a leaders’ debate on national security took place was in 2015. Given the scale of today’s challenges, that is unacceptable.

Why This Debate Matters

Canada’s credibility with its allies is at stake. Our partners in NATO and NORAD are increasing pressure on Canada to meet its obligations, and failure to do so could weaken our influence on the global stage. A weak military not only leaves us vulnerable but also limits our ability to contribute meaningfully to international security efforts.

This debate is not about partisan politics – it’s about ensuring that Canadians understand where each party stands on protecting the country’s sovereignty and interests. With election campaigns already underway, voters deserve more than vague promises and scattered policy announcements. They need a clear, detailed discussion on how the next government will address our national security crisis.

Time to Take Action

The growing support for the CDA Institute’s petition shows that Canadians want this conversation to happen. The call for 10,000 signatures is not just symbolic – it is a demand for accountability from those seeking to lead the country. National security is not a niche issue; it is a fundamental responsibility of the government.

With election day approaching, Canadians should ask themselves: Do we want a government that reacts to crises as they arise, or one that proactively prepares for them? The answer will shape Canada’s security for decades to come.

It’s time for our leaders to step up. The question is: will they?

If you believe Canada needs to prioritize national security and defense, add your voice.

Sign the petition here and help make defense a top election issue.