Securing Canada’s Sovereignty In The Arctic

Abstract

As demonstrated by this summer’s OP Nanook, the Arctic continues to be of strategic importance to Canada due to its wealth of natural resources and the importance of its position to the defence of the country. This policy brief contends that Canada should strengthen its patrol capacity in the Arctic and its exclusive economic zones by using Arctic/offshore patrol ships that belong to an armed Canadian Coast Guard. If Canada is serious about defending its North, the Canadian Forces will need to enhance its search and rescue capabilities in the region. Furthermore to counter illegal activity in the North, the Canadian Forces should share responsibility with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and an armed Canadian Coast Guard. Lastly, unmanned aerial vehicles may be of strategic importance to Canada, as they can monitor remote areas while Canadian Rangers provide support on the ground to better protect the region. A Canadian policy that places importance on the Arctic will need to contain elements that develop the capabilities of the Canadian Forces and the Canadian Coast Guard.