Canada has been engaged in “high-level” discussions with the United States regarding the potential inclusion in President Donald Trump’s proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system, Prime Minister Mark Carney revealed on Wednesday.
Carney explained that Canada has the ability to contribute to the Golden Dome initiative, which aims to defend against a wide range of missile threats, from intercontinental ballistic missiles to hypersonic and cruise missiles, as well as drones. He noted that these talks have been ongoing at the highest levels of government.
“We are conscious that we have an ability, if we so choose, to complete the Golden Dome with investments in partnership (with the US). And it’s something that we are looking at and something that has been discussed at a high level,” Carney stated during a press conference.
Trump’s ambitious missile defense system is designed to provide protection against evolving missile threats, with the goal of having it operational within about three years, by the end of his second term. However, the project faces substantial technical and political hurdles.
Carney acknowledged the increasing missile threats, particularly those that could emerge from space in the near future.
“We take those threats seriously,” Carney said, emphasizing the importance of addressing these challenges proactively.
As long-standing partners in continental defense through the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), Canada and the U.S. share significant defense responsibilities. However, Ottawa is also taking steps to diversify its trade and security partnerships as relations with the U.S. have become more strained in recent years.
Carney revealed that Canada is also reviewing its major purchase of F-35 combat planes from the U.S. and has recently signed a deal with Australia to develop Arctic radar systems.
Additionally, Carney indicated that Canada is in talks with European allies about becoming a full partner in the ReArm Europe initiative, which aims to strengthen European defense capabilities and the defense industry.
The ongoing discussions about the Golden Dome reflect Canada’s evolving security priorities, as the nation seeks to balance its traditional relationship with the U.S. while expanding its global defense and trade networks.
