Canada, Norad, and Missile Defence

Of note, the document raised the previous government’s 2005 decision to refuse participation in the US ballistic missile defence (BMD) system, and asked whether it was time to revisit this decision “given changing technologies and threats?” This Vimy Paper explores the debate about Canada’s possible participation in US missile defence plans, and assesses the advantages and possible disadvantages o [...] Or are there more effective areas in which to invest to better protect the North American continent?”1 It remains to be seen whether the inclusion of BMD in this consultation paper is indicative of a renewed interest in reassess Canada’s participation or in fact a red herring meant to give the appearance of consid- eration.2 The current government has certainly been coy on the issue, unlike the Co [...] By directly participating in BMD, Canada would reinforce the status of the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD), strengthen the Canada-US defence relationship, and potentially ensure an element of protection in the event of a ballistic missile attack. [...] New links with civilian agencies like Nav Canada and the US Federal Aviation Authority L'INSTITUT DE LA CAD | CAHIER VIMY 5 CANADA, NORAD, AND MISSILE DEFENCE (FAA) were established to gain a better operating picture of the internal air threat, and streamlined rules of engagement were implemented.11 Recognition of the continuing importance of the command in both countries can be found in the deci- [...] Indeed, it is all too easy to be fixated on NORAD and forget the numerous agreements that tie the two allies together – from the Permanent Joint Board of Defence to the Military Planning Committee to the high-levels of interoperability and close working relationship between the military services of both countries.