Canada is formulating a national mobilization plan to expand reserve forces, focusing on preparedness for natural disasters and military threats. General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, announced plans to recruit up to 400,000 volunteers to aid in crises ranging from pandemics to missile strikes.
Inspiration from Finland
The initiative draws inspiration from Finland’s impressive reserve force of approximately 900,000 citizens. General Carignan highlighted the need for Canada to rethink its military focus, which has traditionally emphasized international deployment, to concentrate on national sovereignty and community resilience.
Growing Demands on the Armed Forces
She noted an increase in requests for the Canadian Armed Forces, owing to climate change and natural disasters. Previously responding to such events every five years, the military has been deployed in six provinces seven times this year alone.
Strategic Objectives of the Mobilization Plan
The mobilization directive, signed in May, proposes expanding primary reserves from 23,500 to 100,000 and supplementary reserves from 4,300 to 300,000. The supplementary force would include both skilled and unskilled volunteers, drawing on former military personnel and civil servants.
- Primary Reserve Increase: 100,000 personnel
- Supplementary Reserve Increase: 300,000 personnel
- Current Primary Reserve Size: 23,500
- Current Supplementary Reserve Size: 4,300
Preparation for Military Threats
General Carignan emphasized the importance of community readiness in addressing various threats, including hybrid warfare, drone attacks, and missile strikes. She stated that while there is no fear of an invasion, the potential for attacks from missiles developed by nations like Russia, China, and North Korea poses a significant risk.
Implementation Timeline and Training
The mobilization plan is projected to take five to ten years for full implementation. Training for volunteers will focus on essential skills relevant to their roles, with minimal yearly training required after initial instruction.
Volunteer Engagement and Training Focus
General Carignan anticipates a positive response from the public, citing discussions on national service at universities and community events. The training will be adapted to each role, allowing those with existing skills, such as cooks or equipment operators, to contribute effectively.
Funding has yet to be allocated; however, it may come from increased military spending as the government aims to meet NATO’s target of 3.5% of GDP by 2035. General Carignan expressed that a well-structured reserve force could significantly enhance Canada’s ability to manage both natural disasters and potential military conflicts.
