United States Air Force Gen. Gregory M. Guillot, Commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command takes part in an interview with The Canadian Press, in Ottawa, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS
The new commander of Norad, U.S. Gen. Gregory Guillot, has outlined plans to enhance cooperation between American and Canadian forces in Arctic defense. Gen. Guillot, who assumed command in February, emphasized the importance of increased training for U.S. troops in the Far North, aligning with Canada's heightened focus on Arctic security.
During a visit to Ottawa in mid-April, Gen. Guillot discussed strategies to bolster Norad's capabilities in harsh northern climates. He highlighted the necessity of ensuring freedom of movement in the Arctic and expressed intentions to conduct joint exercises with Canadian forces.
Arctic defense has become a paramount concern for Norad following incidents such as the intrusion of a Chinese surveillance balloon into Alaskan airspace in January 2023. To address these threats, both Canada and the U.S. are committed to establishing a network of over-the-horizon radars in the Arctic by 2028, with full functionality expected by 2032.
Gen. Guillot emphasized Norad's efforts to expedite modernization initiatives, including the development of new radar systems and infrastructure for F-35 fighter jets. He also underscored the importance of collaboration with NATO and other allies to enhance early threat detection capabilities in the region.
Regarding previous discussions about NATO spending, Gen. Guillot clarified that his commitment to engaging in tough conversations was not specifically directed at Canada. He commended Canada's planned increase in defense spending and expressed optimism about the country's commitment to Arctic sovereignty, as outlined in the recent defense policy update titled "Our North, Strong and Free."
The policy update includes provisions for new satellite infrastructure, support hubs for year-round military presence in the North, and specialized equipment for Arctic operations. Gen. Guillot affirmed his confidence in Canada's dedication to defense and Arctic security, stating unequivocally that Canada is approaching these issues with the necessary seriousness.
