# Canada Reforms Defence Procurement

Canada is increasing defence spending, but lengthy acquisition timelines, fragmented responsibilities across defence and procurement organizations, and constraints in personnel and training may slow the conversion of funding into military capability. The new Defence Investment Agency and the government’s “Build-Partner-Buy” strategy could create opportunities for Canadian industry and allied suppliers. The cited F-35, River-class destroyer, and Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship programs illustrate the scale and long timelines involved; the signal identifies no active solicitation or procurement contact.

- The Department of National Defence, Public Services and Procurement Canada, and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada are among the organizations involved, while the new Defence Investment Agency may change how defence investments are coordinated.
- The F-35 acquisition has an estimated project cost of **$27.7 billion**; the schedule cited in the signal placed pilot training at Luke Air Force Base in 2026 and the first aircraft in Canada in 2028. River-class destroyers are not expected to enter service until the 2030s, while all six Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships were delivered by August 2025.
- Canadian and allied suppliers can use the Build-Partner-Buy approach as a strategic indicator when assessing where their capabilities may fit. There is no specific bid action to take from this signal; contractors should follow implementation and upcoming program requirements.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** September 29, 2026

### Government Entities
- Department of National Defence (DND)
- Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC)
- Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)
- Defence Investment Agency (DIA)
- Royal Canadian Navy (RCN)

### Sources
- [Can Canada Build Fast Enough? Turning Defence Spending into Military Capability – NAOC](https://natoassociation.ca/can-canada-build-fast-enough-turning-defence-spending-into-military-capability) - NATO Association