Chapter Three: North America

The US Department of Defense saw two secretaries of defense and one acting secretary in the space of seven months, creating added uncertainties over policy direction and priorities. In August 2019, the US re-established a Space Command amid growing concern about the vulnerability of US space-based assets, and as a precursor to the creation of a US Space Force. Debates continue over the precise role of and ambition for such a force. Challenges over rebuilding readiness are vying with force-modernisation demands amid renewed focus on great-power competition. Rebuilding the reach and potency of offensive systems is key, such as with the army’s Long-Range Precision Fires project and the navy’s Offensive Missile Strategy. The planning guidance issued by the Commandant of the US Marine Corps said that it should no longer be bound by a goal of 38 large amphibious ships in light of the A2/AD challenge. This could significantly affect US Navy strategic planning and shipbuilding ambitions. The US Navy force structure remains under strain, including aircraft carriers but also submarines, as the navy, industry and legislators seek to mitigate a forecast fall in submarine numbers to the low 40s in the 2030s. The US Air Force continues to struggle to improve readiness. With the fleet ageing, planners are having to manage the demands of maintenance, modernisation and the introduction of new types, some with their own problems over initial readiness. Canada faces a long-term challenge in implementing its 2017 defence strategy, which detailed significant procurements both of combat aircraft, to replace the current F/A-18 fleet, and ship construction for the navy and coastguard. An initial hike in the budget has not been sustained so far.