ADGA Group participated as a Strategic Sponsor at this year’s Conference of Defence Associations Institute (CDAI) Conference in Ottawa early March, contributing to discussions on the evolving priorities shaping Canada’s defence and security.
Bringing together leaders from government, the Canadian Armed Forces, industry, and academia, the conference highlighted the scale of coordination required to address an increasingly complex global security environment.
Across sessions, three themes emerged as central to Canada’s defence posture: investment, industrial capacity, and readiness
“Canada is at a pivotal moment for defence and security. Strengthening our capabilities will depend not only on investment, but on people, partnerships, and our ability to work across the entire defence community to deliver readiness,”
“Canada is at a pivotal moment for defence and security. Strengthening our capabilities will depend not only on investment, but on people, partnerships, and our ability to work across the entire defence community to deliver readiness,” said LGen (Ret’d) Jean-Marc Lanthier, President and CEO of ADGA Group.
Discussions underscored that defence investment must deliver both enhanced capability and broader economic value. Strengthening Canada’s industrial base, activating small and medium-sized enterprises, and building resilient domestic supply chains were identified as critical to sustaining long-term capability and public support.
The importance of people and readiness was also a consistent focus. Recruitment, retention, and the development of a strong reserve force remain key to ensuring the Canadian Armed Forces can meet current and future operational demands.
Participants also emphasized the role of technology and training in accelerating readiness. Capabilities such as digital systems, simulation, and mission preparation are increasingly central to preparing forces to operate effectively in complex and evolving environments.
As part of the conference program, Jean-Marc Lanthier opened a roundtable on Recruitment, Retention, and Strategic Reserve Development, reinforcing the importance of addressing personnel challenges as a core component of defence capability.
The conference also reflected a broader shift toward recognizing that Canada’s defence and security depend on contributions across government, industry, academia, and civil society.
As Canada enters a period of increased defence investment and strategic focus, continued collaboration across these communities will be essential to strengthening national readiness and resilience.
ADGA Group remains committed to supporting Canada’s defence and security through its work in digital systems, simulation and training, and operational support.