Backgrounder: Investments in Special Operations Forces and Joint Capabilities

The Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM) is a highly-skilled, adaptable, multipurpose force that can be called upon in situations that pose imminent threats to the national interest.

Joint capabilities facilitate the improved command and control of deployed CAF elements.

The investments made in special operations forces (SOF) and joint capabilities by Canada’s defence policy will support their unique requirements to ensure long-term continuity and effectiveness.

We will:

• Increase SOF by adding 605 personnel;
• Acquire airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms;
• Recapitalize existing commercial pattern, SUV-type armoured vehicles;
• Modernize and enhance SOF Command, Control, and Communications information systems, and computer defence networks;
• Enhance next generation SOF integrated soldier system equipment, land and maritime mobility platforms, and fighting vehicle platforms;
• Invest in joint command and control systems and equipment, specifically for integrated information technology and communications;
• Acquire joint signals capabilities that improve the military’s ability to collect and exploit electronic signals intelligence on expeditionary operations;
• Improve capabilities of the Joint Deployable Headquarters (HQ) and Signals Regiment, including HQ portable structures and command, control, and communications equipment;
• Improve cryptographic, information operations, and cyber capabilities to include:
• Cyber security and situational awareness projects;
• Cyber threat identification and response;
• Development of military-specific information operations; and
• Development of military-specific offensive cyber operations capabilities able to target, exploit, influence, and attack in support of military operations.
• Improve Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive detection and response capabilities.

The Government will provide $1.5 billion on an accrual basis ($1.2 billion on a cash basis) to fund equipment projects for Canada’s Special Operations Forces over the next 20 years. This includes:

• $366 million over the next 20 years for four new projects. For example, integrated soldier system equipment will be modernized to enhance interoperability and maintain technological advantage against potential adversaries.
• $1.2 billion over the next 20 years to fully fund planned equipment projects. As an example, we will acquire an airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platform that will enhance the ability of our Special Operations Forces to improve their understanding of the operational environment.

The Government will provide $4.6 billion on an accrual basis ($9.7 billion on a cash basis) for joint capability projects in domains such as cyber, intelligence, and joint command and control over the next 20 years. This includes:

• $1.2 billion has been further dedicated to five new equipment projects and one information technology project. For example, the Combined Joint Intelligence Modernization project will provide a modern deployable intelligence centre for land-based operations, building on the lessons learned in recent operations. Additionally, the Secure Radio Modernization project will upgrade encryption capability of radios to maintain security and interoperability with our Five-Eyes partners.
• $3.4 billion over the next 20 years to fully fund planned equipment projects. For example, we will improve the capabilities of the Joint Deployable Headquarters and Signals Regiment. This will include the acquisition of portable structures to house the deployed headquarters and the equipment employed by its staff for command, control, and communications.

New Investments in Special Operations Forces (SOF)

 New Investments in Joint Capabilities