Anand, who was given the defence portfolio after last September’s election, faces a complex set of internal and external challenges relating to Canada’s military. These range from leadership deficiencies and procurement controversies to its place in projecting Canada’s wider international role.
Canada’s large and politically active Ukrainian diaspora will urge the Liberal government to support NATO in defending Ukraine.
Enforced changes to the senior leadership will reduce the ability of the armed forces to focus on international commitments.
It is unlikely that the government will choose to deploy Canadian peace-keeping troops overseas for the foreseeable future.
Ottawa faces consequences from its choice this year of whether to replace ageing CF-18 fighters with a US or Swedish option.
