The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge
Who & What Is Underwater in Canada's Arctic? - Encore
May 14, 2025
Join Professor Adam Lajeunesse, a historian and Arctic expert from ST FX University, as he explores Canada’s Arctic defense strategies and submarine operations. He discusses the historical significance of Cold War submarines and their role in monitoring foreign activities in Arctic waters. The conversation dives into the complexities of acquiring new submarines and the operational challenges faced by the aging Victoria-class fleet. With geopolitical threats looming, Lajeunesse emphasizes the urgency of strengthening Canada’s naval capabilities.
41:09
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Quick takeaways
- Canada's Arctic defense relies heavily on understanding historical submarine operations and fostering collaboration with U.S. forces amid geopolitical tensions.
- The challenges of procuring new submarines highlight the need for timely investment and operational readiness to address evolving security threats in the Arctic.
Deep dives
Canada's Arctic Defense Landscape
Canada's defense capabilities in the Arctic are becoming increasingly crucial, especially amid growing geopolitical tensions. The country aims to meet NATO's defense spending target of 2% of GDP, which could involve significant investments in new military technologies, including a proposed submarine program. The recent discussions highlight the importance of understanding Canada's historical and current submarine operations in the Arctic, particularly in relation to the United States' established presence in this strategically vital area. As the government contemplates defense priorities, there is a pressing need for enhanced situational awareness and operational readiness in the face of potential threats from Russia and other nations.
