Canada announces Arctic early warning radar system development

Canada is planning to build a new early warning system for the Arctic, and it has received a positive response from experts. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the project in Iqaluit. The plan involves working with Australia to create the Arctic Over-The-Horizon Radar System. This system will help detect and respond to air and maritime threats more quickly and from a greater distance. The radar system will be based in Ontario. Whitney Lackenbauer, a researcher on Arctic studies, expressed excitement about the partnership with Australia. He noted that the current warning system only covers parts of Canada’s Arctic. The new system aims to provide coverage for all of the Canadian Arctic and even the Arctic Ocean. Lackenbauer mentioned that Australia shares similarities with Canada, particularly regarding its northern regions and interest in security due to its geographical challenges. The system is part of a larger $6 billion investment already announced to modernize the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Tom Henheffer, CEO of the Arctic Research Foundation, also welcomed the investment but wished it could be based in the Arctic instead of southern Ontario. He noted that infrastructure announcements often sound good, but don’t always meet the actual needs of the region. Raymond Ruben Sr., the mayor of Paulatuk, expressed concerns about security in his community. He wants a quicker, more formal process to address coastal security. Ruben mentioned the presence of Canadian Rangers in his area but called for more military investments. Carney announced an investment of $420 million to allow the Canadian Armed Forces to increase their presence in the Arctic. However, Lackenbauer seeks more details on this aspect of the plan. Ruben supports the recent investments but believes Canada needs to do more for the North, stating, "It's about time."