Greenland focus raises whether Canada should handle Arctic security alone

President Trump's push to acquire Greenland has complicated Canada–U.S. defence ties, and experts say abandoning partnerships like NORAD would be costly; Canada is increasing Arctic defence spending and pursuing long-term modernization projects.

President Trump’s public push to acquire Greenland has added new strains to Canada's Arctic sovereignty and defence relationships with the United States. Experts warn the balance between maintaining bilateral partnerships such as NORAD and strengthening Canada’s independent Arctic capabilities is difficult and costly. Ottawa has announced plans to increase defence spending and pursue a multi-decade NORAD modernization program while also reviewing procurement decisions. Key facts: - Reporting notes Trump has publicly pressed to acquire Greenland and discussed possible military options, which experts say complicates Canada–U.S. ties. - NORAD continues joint activities in the region, including aircraft deployments to support planned operations at Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. - Experts say fully replacing U.S. contributions to continental defence would take many years and substantial additional spending. - Canada has announced plans to double defence spending by the end of the decade and is pursuing NORAD modernization projects, with some timelines extending to 2037–2041. Summary: The developments have increased urgency around Canada’s Arctic spending and procurement choices while keeping existing partnerships in place. Some modernization milestones are scheduled years ahead and a government review of major fighter procurement remains pending. Undetermined at this time.