In this Expert Series episode, we meet with Dr. Rob Huebert and Dr. Philippe Lagassé to discuss this year’s Strategic Outlook: a timely and essential survey of the emerging and existing security challenges facing Canada at this dangerous inflection point.

Building on his analysis for the CDA Institute’s 2025 Strategic Outlook publication, Dr. Huebert discusses several pressing challenges facing Canada, including threats posed by China and Russia in the Arctic, the need for Canada to become further engaged in the Indo-Pacific region, and continental defence.

These challenges are heightened with changes brought on by the Trump administration, its use of tariffs, and President Trump’s rhetoric about making Canada the 51st state. Dr. Huebert reflects on how Canada can navigate the significant changes in the bilateral relationship and provides his interpretation of Trump’s intentions towards Canada, which could range from a negotiation strategy to literal annexation of Canada.

Dr. Phillipe Lagassé discusses the efforts to recapitalize the CAF, the importance of reaching 2% and beyond, impediments to procurement reform, and whether or not Canada should consider cancelling the F-35 acquisition as well as the extent to which we can pivot to other defence suppliers.

Read the Strategic Outlook 2025: https://bit.ly/4jnRQh0

Don’t miss an episode – subscribe to the CDA Institute newsletter today:
https://bit.ly/40ykggq

The CDA Institute is a non-partisan think tank that conducts research and education programming on defence and security.

Learn more: CDA Institute