Preserving capacity, General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff, Keys to Canadian SAR
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E M E R G I N G T E C H www.vanguardcanada.com DECEMBER 2024/JANUARY 2025 15 In some ways, Our North, Strong and Free builds off the recent technologically related documents released by the DND and CAF, such as Quantum 2030 and AI Strategy, which indicates that Canadian defence is generating more serious think- ing about emerging technologies. What remains to be seen, however, is whether Canada will be able to successfully pro- cure such technology while also integrat- ing them into its doctrine, force structures and business operations. The new policy presents a firmer understanding of what technological systems may be acquired in a near-future time frame. Even the sys- tems that are still under the exploration phase for procurement purposes may still be eventually confirmed for formal acqui- sition. Some of the systems that are de- scribed as being "explored" include new ground-based air defences and new long- range air and sea-launched missiles. However, the lack of firm commitments for some of these projects means a degree of uncertainty will remain. If Canada de- lays too long on taking action regarding several of the projects described as be- ing under exploration, it will have several trickle-down consequences. Delayed pro- curements means that meaningful organi- zational changes for the CAF will also be pushed down the road. Genuine military innovation is a very complex and difficult process but is a necessary component of properly responding to rising international threats. 6 Lengthy delays can potentially cede the innovation advantage to adver- saries such as China and Russia, as well as North Korea and Iran as they strengthen their own capabilities. The longer Canada waits to procure many of these necessary emerging technologies, the greater risk for Canada's continental defence and interna- tional security commitments. In conclusion, Our North, Strong and Free sets a new strategic direction for Canada's defence policy by emphasiz- ing emerging technologies in response to evolving international threats. To ensure the timely adoption of innovations like AI, cyber capabilities, and quantum comput- ing, the government must streamline bu- reaucracy, accelerate procurement, build stronger international partnerships, and guarantee consistent funding. The DND and CAF must also foster a pro-digitiza- tion culture to turn these advancements into operational capabilities. Ultimately, success hinges on the government's ability to translate policy into action by overcom- ing organizational challenges and commit- ting to sustained investment in technologi- cal innovation. References: 1. Dave Perry, interview with, Nicholas Todd, RAdm (Ret'd) Jeff Hamilton, Rob Huebert, Philippe Lagassé, Char- lotte Duval-Lantoine, "Reviewing the Defence Policy Review," Defence Deconstructed Podcast, podcast audio, (2024) https://www.cgai.ca/ reviewing_the_defence_policy_review 2. Kyle Duggan, "Trudeau pledges Canada will hit 2 percent NATO target – by 2032," Politico (11 Jul 2024), https://www.politico.com/ news/2024/07/11/trudeau-pledges- canada-will-hit-2-percent-target- by-2032-00167595 3. DND, "Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada's De- fence," p. 9. 4. DND, "Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada's De- fence," p. 20. 5. "Canada exploring possibility of join- ing AUKUS alliance, Trudeau says," Global News (8 Apr 2024), https:// globalnews.ca/news/10409582/ canada-aukus-alliance-trudeau/ 6. Salt, Alexander. 2024. "Military Organizational Change and Emerg- ing Technology: Lessons for Canada," Canadian Global Affairs Institute, https://www.cgai.ca/military_organi- zational_change_and_emerging_tech- nology_lessons_for_canada Dr. Alexander Salt has a PhD from the University of Calgary's Centre for Military, Security and Strategic Studies and an MA in Political Studies from the University of Manitoba. His research has garnered multiple awards, including the Social Sci- ences and Humanities Research Council of Canada's Joseph-Armand Bombardier Doctoral Award. Reprinted with permission, Canadian Global Affairs Institute and Triple Helix, September 2024 https://www.cgai.ca/ emerging_technologies_and_the_our_ north_strong_and_free GET YOUR COPY NOW ON: It's a call to embrace change, think differently, and lead with courage and empathy amidst uncertainty. Oppmize the Moment is for visionaries, innovators, and anyone in between who is seeking alternaave methods to navigate constant change effecavely. martinrust.ca MAKING DECISIONS IN TURBULENT TIMES.