On Canada’s Pacific coast, a major infrastructure push is taking shape—one that reflects a broader national effort to rebuild, modernize, and future-proof the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in an increasingly complex global security environment.
During a visit to Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, underscored the scale and urgency of Canada’s defence investments, tying local infrastructure upgrades directly to national readiness, economic growth, and alliance commitments.
At the centre of the announcement is a $1.1 billion investment to replace the aging A and B jetties in Esquimalt—critical infrastructure that supports Royal Canadian Navy operations on the Pacific coast. The project will deliver modern, seismically resilient facilities designed to meet the demands of both current and future fleets. Beyond operational impact, the jetty replacement is expected to support approximately 1,280 jobs during construction, reinforcing the defence sector’s role as a driver of regional economic activity.
The Esquimalt investment is part of a much broader housing and infrastructure strategy aimed at supporting CAF members and their families. Across the country, the federal government is expanding access to military housing through the construction of 7,500 new units at 25 locations, including Esquimalt and Comox. This includes the launch of the second phase of a national housing construction program valued at more than $3.7 billion—an effort designed to address long-standing housing pressures while improving quality of life for service members.
These investments are unfolding against the backdrop of a significant milestone: Canada’s achievement of NATO’s 2% defence spending target—reached half a decade ahead of schedule. The government has positioned this milestone not as a conclusion, but as the starting point for a sustained, long-term transformation of Canada’s defence posture.
Over the next decade, Canada plans to deliver half a trillion dollars in defence investment, aligning with a path toward the NATO Defence Investment Pledge of 5% of GDP by 2035. This funding is intended to restore operational readiness, modernize capabilities, and ensure the CAF can deter threats, defend national interests, and contribute meaningfully to continental and global security.
“This investment ensures the Canadian Armed Forces have the modern infrastructure and capabilities required to operate effectively in today’s security environment. It strengthens readiness, supports our members and their families, and delivers real economic benefits through job creation and partnerships with Canadian industry. It is a clear demonstration of Canada’s commitment to contribute to NATO and to safeguard our country and our interests at home and abroad,” assured the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence.
For Minister McKnight, the significance of the 2% milestone extends beyond budgets and capabilities to the people behind the mission.
“Meeting NATO’s 2% target is about more than defense spending; it’s about investing in the people who defend Canada. Our government is committed to standing with all those who have worn the uniform and that includes our Veterans, and the active service members who continue to serve today,” stated the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.
As construction projects advance and housing initiatives scale nationwide, the Esquimalt announcement offers a clear signal of intent: Canada is not only investing in platforms and infrastructure, but in the long-term resilience of its Defence Team—ensuring it remains prepared, adaptable, and capable in the face of evolving global challenges.
