Canada is preparing to join the European Union's defense initiative as a response to strained U.S. relations under the Trump administration.
Canada Advances Ties with EU for Military Collaboration Amid U.S. Tensions
Canada Advances Ties with EU for Military Collaboration Amid U.S. Tensions
As Canada boosts defense ties with the EU, it aims to reduce reliance on the U.S. military industry.
March 19, 2025, 3:25 p.m. ET - Canada is reportedly finalizing discussions with the European Union (E.U.) to join its burgeoning defense industry project. This collaboration would enable Canadian manufacturers to participate in the production of European military equipment, including fighter jets, significantly enhancing the country's defense capabilities while diversifying its defense market.
This initiative comes at a critical time as Canada seeks to reduce its dependency on the United States, especially following tensions that have arisen since President Trump's election. Many Canadian officials express concern over the unpredictable nature of U.S. policy, prompting Canada to strengthen its relationships with European countries.
The newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney has made it clear that his government is eager to forge closer ties with Europe. His first international trip since taking office took him to Paris and London, positioning Canada as “the most European of non-European countries.”
According to two knowledgeable sources—one from the E.U. and another from Canada—negotiations are progressing to formally incorporate Canada into the E.U.'s defense strategy. This alliance aims to enhance the E.U.’s military industry, offering a viable alternative to U.S. dominance in military technology.
Specifically, Canada will engage in manufacturing efforts for European military projects like the Saab Gripen combat aircraft, which competes with the American F-35 developed by Lockheed Martin. By integrating its manufacturing capabilities within the E.U. defense arena, Canada hopes to not only boost its own military industry but also join a network of traditional U.S. allies seeking to strengthen their own positions on the global defense stage.
This initiative comes at a critical time as Canada seeks to reduce its dependency on the United States, especially following tensions that have arisen since President Trump's election. Many Canadian officials express concern over the unpredictable nature of U.S. policy, prompting Canada to strengthen its relationships with European countries.
The newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney has made it clear that his government is eager to forge closer ties with Europe. His first international trip since taking office took him to Paris and London, positioning Canada as “the most European of non-European countries.”
According to two knowledgeable sources—one from the E.U. and another from Canada—negotiations are progressing to formally incorporate Canada into the E.U.'s defense strategy. This alliance aims to enhance the E.U.’s military industry, offering a viable alternative to U.S. dominance in military technology.
Specifically, Canada will engage in manufacturing efforts for European military projects like the Saab Gripen combat aircraft, which competes with the American F-35 developed by Lockheed Martin. By integrating its manufacturing capabilities within the E.U. defense arena, Canada hopes to not only boost its own military industry but also join a network of traditional U.S. allies seeking to strengthen their own positions on the global defense stage.
