Richard Shimooka

In this discussion, Richard Shimooka, a Canadian defense policy expert and senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, tackles the pressing issue of Canada’s defense spending and its NATO commitments. He highlights concerns over Canada being perceived as a ‘freeloader’ and the implications of not meeting the 2% GDP target by 2032. Shimooka examines the inefficiencies in military procurement and the challenges in personnel readiness, urging for critical reforms to bolster Canada’s military capabilities amidst global security tensions.

In this engaging conversation, Richard Shimooka, an expert in Canadian defense policy at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, discusses Canada’s ambitious plan to increase its defense budget to meet NATO’s 2% GDP target. He explains the historical context of Canada’s military underspending and the urgency driven by global security demands. The conversation dives into the complexities of defense procurement, challenges in military readiness, and the pressing security issues in Canada’s Arctic, particularly in light of climate change and geopolitical tensions.

Richard Shimooka, a defense policy writer, delves into Canada's fighter jet procurement, highlighting potential pitfalls in choosing the wrong aircraft. He critiques the Saab Gripen-E's capability, claiming it can't compete with the F-35 and dismisses its job creation promises as misleading. He underscores the risks of a mixed fleet, suggesting it could hinder Canada’s defense credibility. The discussion also touches on the importance of choosing a fifth-generation fighter for national security, backed by military leaders.

Trevor Tombe, a Professor of Economics at the University of Calgary, discusses whether Canada is teetering on the edge of a recession, analyzing rising unemployment and recent job losses. Meanwhile, Richard Shimooka advocates for increased investment in F-35 fighter jets while weighing other military options for Canada. They dive into the implications of economic uncertainty on households and the nation’s defense strategy amidst growing tensions with China, highlighting the complexities of military procurement and economic forecasting.

Richard Shimooka, a defense policy writer, joins Daniel Robson, an independent journalist specializing in digital extremism, for an engaging discussion. They tackle the alarming rise of anti-Jewish hatred in Canada, particularly on online platforms. Robson highlights a critical language gap in addressing this issue while advocating for better monitoring of hate crimes. Shimooka delves into the controversial decision by BC Ferries to procure from a Chinese state-owned firm, raising questions about national security and the government's response to mounting public concerns.