Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy Sends Clear Signals for Aerospace
Today, the Government of Canada officially released Security, Sovereignty and Prosperity — its long-awaited Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS).
Mike Mueller, President and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC), represented Canada’s aerospace industry at today’s announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney, underscoring the DIS as a meaningful step forward for both AIAC and the broader sector.“
The Defence Industrial Strategy provides direction and sets the necessary tone for the industry,” said Mueller. “We have been calling for this level of clarity, and now it will be necessary for both government and industry to move forward in an expeditious manner.”
The Prime Minister and the government have shown considerable leadership and have clearly heard industry’s call for an industrial strategy. AIAC has long advocated for an industrial strategy that provides a demand signal and moves away from a transactional approach to procurement in order to build the industry and create good-paying, high-skill jobs for Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast.
Together, we have an opportunity to implement many aspects of this plan in an expeditious and disciplined way. The strategy is not the end, but rather the beginning. We look forward to working closely with government and are pleased that the first pillar of this strategy recognizes and prioritizes the renewal of the relationship with industry, identifying industry as partners in building and sustaining our armed forces. Every part of Canada’s aerospace and defence industry is ready to do its part to ensure success.
“Industry stands ready as the government has committed to procuring more strategically, investing in innovation, supporting supply chains and prioritizing exports,” said Mueller. “With a clear demand signal, accelerated procurement, predictable R&D pathways and a modernized export regime, Canada can rebuild its industrial base, strengthen sovereignty and compete in a rapidly changing global security environment.”
Access the Strategy here: Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy – Canada.ca
Read the official press release from Prime Minister Mark Carney: Prime Minister Carney launches Canada’s first Defence Industrial Strategy to strengthen security, create prosperity, and reinforce strategic autonomy | Prime Minister of Canada
