I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 36 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on National Defence. Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Monday, February 23, 2026, the committee is meeting to study the impact of the defence industrial strategy.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format. Before we continue, I ask participants to consult the guidelines on the table. These measures are to help prevent audio feedback and protect the health and safety of our interpreters.
As a reminder for witnesses and members, please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. For interpretation, please use the earpiece and select the appropriate channel. Again, all comments should be addressed through the chair.
I'd now like to welcome the minister and our witnesses.
Of course, we have with us the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, with Lieutenant-General Stephen Kelsey, vice-chief of the defence staff, Canadian Armed Forces; Lieutenant-General Erick Simoneau, chief of military personnel and commander of military personnel command; Wendy Hadwen, assistant deputy minister, policy and industry; and Heather Sheehy, assistant deputy minister, materiel.
Minister, it's over to you. You have five minutes. Does that sound good?