New $6-billion Arctic radar will track incoming missiles, Canadian military says

Canada is investing $6 billion in a new radar system designed to enhance missile detection in the Arctic, Ottawa Citizen reports. The government is aiming to reassure the U.S. about its defense commitments.

• This Polar-Over-the-Horizon Radar will operate continuously, tracking not only missiles but also other aerospace and maritime objects.
• Initially rejected nearly 20 years ago, the radar project is part of a broader NORAD modernization effort announced in June 2022. Previous Canadian defense projects have frequently faced budget overruns and delays, raising concerns about the feasibility of this initiative.
• The construction of the radar system is set to begin in 2030 and it is expected to be fully operational by 2033. A dedicated project team has been established, and Defence Research and Development Canada will contribute to site testing and modeling.
• The Liberal government faces criticism over its secrecy regarding military procurement, This has led to frustration among Canadian companies, with the government appearing to prioritize foreign technology over domestic capabilities – despite announcing over $30 billion in new defense projects last year.