Mr. Chair, Department of National Defence representatives have been, for some time now, affirming the need for greater visibility of the Canadian Forces in the Arctic, given the new transportation corridors, the discovery of large quantities of natural resources and the changing security situation.
However, this transformation does not rest solely on more modern technology and equipment. It will require a fundamental change in the culture of our armed forces in order to guarantee a fully integrated and unified approach in terms of operations.
This evening, we have once again heard about great plans for procurement, put in place by the new Conservative government in an attempt to achieve new air and maritime capabilities that will reinforce our presence in the north.
I would like to ask the parliamentary secretary to explain in greater detail the announcement of three new joint support ships, as well as logistics trucks, helicopters and other strategic aircraft needed for our troops.
How will the three branches of our armed forces be utilized by the new Joint Task Force North?