Canada has unveiled a major defense initiative aimed at strengthening its military presence in the Arctic, marking a shift toward greater strategic independence in the region.

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the plan on March 12 in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, outlining a C$35 billion program designed to expand Canada’s ability to protect its Arctic territory.

For decades, Canada has relied heavily on cooperation with the United States to monitor the vast Arctic region, which spans about 4.4 million square kilometers of land and sea. However, changing geopolitical conditions and strained relations between the two countries have prompted Ottawa to pursue a more self-reliant defense strategy.

“We will no longer depend on any one nation, and instead build a stronger, more independent country. With this new plan, Canada is taking full responsibility for defending our Arctic sovereignty,” Carney said during his speech.

Expanding Arctic Military Infrastructure

A central component of the plan is a C$32 billion investment to expand military airfields across the Arctic and establish four new operational support hubs.

Canada currently operates four basic Arctic airfields capable of hosting about six fighter aircraft each. Roughly 2,000 soldiers are stationed across the vast northern region.

The new funding will upgrade those facilities and enhance logistical capabilities to support military operations in remote northern areas.

Improving Transportation and Connectivity

In addition to military infrastructure, the initiative includes upgrades to two commercial airports and the acceleration of two proposed road projects linking Arctic communities with southern Canada.