Canadian Defence Procurement and the Project Approval Process

Abstract

Marked delays in defence acquisitions in Canada have repeatedly raised concerns about the efficiency of its military procurement system. Observers point to the lack of a single point of accountability in defence procurement, a culture of risk aversion, and layers of bureaucratic process as key sources of the problem. Drawing on the project approval process that is set out in the Department of National Defence Project Approval Directive, this article traces the Canadian defence procurement process from the identification through definition phases that are largely internal to DND. It reveals redundant or unnecessary documents and governance structures that may contribute to an inefficient defence procurement system. It highlights possible sources of bottlenecks and risk aversion and puts forward proposals for streamlining. The article concludes with a discussion of the new defence investment agency as set out in Canada's 2026 defence industrial strategy.