The Canadian Association of Defense and Security Industries (CADSI), today issued the following statement February 17 in response to the Government of Canada’s newly unveiled Defense Industrial Strategy (DIS):
“This is an ambitious, landmark strategy for Canada,” said Christyn Cianfarani, President and CEO of CADSI. “The DIS marks a historic turning point. For the first time, we can see a clear, accountable vision for the defense sector, with specific targets to grow and sustain the sovereign industrial capabilities that underpin our national security, economic resilience, and technological leadership.”
The DIS is the culmination of a joint effort to advance an outcomes-driven defense industrial policy – one that aligns procurement, innovation, skills, and sector-wide growth with Canada’s strategic needs. It includes ambitious targets for the industry, a list of sovereign capabilities, a clear commitment to buy Canadian whenever possible, plans for export promotion and expansion, and ties to the new Defense Investment Agency.
“Turning strategy into reality will now come down to execution at scale, scope, and speed,” said Ms. Cianfarani. “The expectations for the public service and Canadian Armed Forces are crystal clear. In partnership with industry, they will need to move beyond existing culture, processes, and experience to get work under contract. While there are undoubtedly challenges ahead, today’s outcome is an example of what is possible when the public and private sectors listen to each other and work toward the same goals. If we can continue to operate that way, there is plenty of reason for optimism.”
