Challenges Facing the Canadian Army and Future Prospects

In September 1943, Canadian troops played a crucial role in the attack on Potenza, Italy, enabling British and American forces to secure a significant victory. Fast forward 83 years, and questions arise about the Canadian Army’s current capability to conduct major operations alongside U.S. forces.

Currently, the Canadian Army lacks the capacity for major combat operations. The army has focused on ‘contribution warfare,’ suitable for multinational peacekeeping, rather than large-scale warfare. This focus was relevant during the post-Cold War period. However, times have changed, and the current Canadian Army no longer meets the needs of Canada or the U.S.

Recognizing this, Canada has introduced a plan called Inflection Point 2025. The plan aims to transform the Canadian Army into a warfighting force ready for major combat operations against equal adversaries. However, this commitment remains a plan and not a reality.

To fulfill this plan, Canada needs to invest in recruitment, equipment, training, and sustainment systems. There are doubts about whether Ottawa can provide necessary resources to create robust combat units.

Recruitment Challenges

One major issue is recruitment. Inflection Point relies on increasing the number of soldiers by 8,500 by 2040. Yet, past experiences show difficulties in achieving these recruitment targets.

Procurement and Sustainment Issues

The procurement system poses another challenge. The Canadian Army requires top-tier equipment for evolving battlefields, but current systems do not effectively provide this. Recent reforms have focused on economic interests rather than military needs.

The sustainment challenge is also significant. Building sufficient stocks and supply lines is crucial for a division-sized unit. The current system struggles to meet these demands promptly, as highlighted by Gen. Wayne Eyre’s 2023 remarks on Canada’s limited munitions supply.

Doctrinal Developments

Moreover, the Canadian Army must adopt new tactics and structures proven essential in recent conflicts like the Ukraine War. Without such changes, the vision of the Inflection Point could remain unrealized.

For the U.S., the effectiveness of the Canadian Army is critical. Historical events, like the 1943 Potenza victory, illustrate the importance of having well-trained and equipped allies.

The hope remains that Canada can overcome these hurdles, ensuring its military is prepared for future combat scenarios.

Andrew Latham is a professor of international relations at Macalester College and a senior fellow at the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy.