Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled “The Plan for a Stronger Canada” on October 29, 2026 — the country’s first comprehensive national security strategy in 22 years. The last one, Paul Martin’s “Securing an Open Society,” dates back to 2004.
The strategy commits Canada to preparing for emergencies and worst-case scenarios, explicitly including the possibility of war. It does not name any imminent conflict or specific adversary, framing itself as a long-term framework rather than an alarm.
The document names eight sectors as essential to national security: emerging technologies such as AI, quantum and telecom; critical minerals; defence; energy; transportation; pharmaceuticals and biotech; food security; and the payments, settlement and investment systems that underpin the economy.
On defence spending, the plan reiterates Canada’s commitment to move toward NATO’s target of 5% of GDP by 2035, up from roughly 2% in 2025-26. Arctic defence is named as a central Canadian Armed Forces responsibility, and the country is reaffirming its NORAD and NATO commitments.
The strategy also promises expanded intelligence investment in CSIS, CSE and military intelligence, continued Five Eyes cooperation, and proposals to modernize national security laws within the first year. It is designed as a framework: five detailed policy plans — covering economic security, foreign policy, defence, public safety and intelligence — will follow, with a new foreign policy expected in about a month. Carney will convene a First Ministers’ meeting on national security, and the strategy will be refreshed every four years.
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Bhudev Bhagaliya is an experienced and senior journalist who has carved a distinct niche for himself in the world of Hindi journalism through his profound understanding and precise writing style. With over two decades of experience in the field of journalism, he has held key responsibilities at Dainik Hindustan for 12 years and at Amar Ujala for one year. Currently, he serves as the Content Editor for the Jagrook Youth News newspaper and portal, where he plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and credibility of the news content. Bhudev Bhagaliya consistently writes about issues that help raise awareness within society and among the younger generation.