The State of Canadian Defence Procurement in 2026
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM - 08:45 AM
Arrival, Registration and Welcome Coffee
🕑: 08:45 AM
Opening Remarks
Host: David Perry, Canadian Global Affairs Institute
🕑: 08:50 AM - 09:45 AM
Panel I: Leaders in DND - Force Development Needs
Host: MGen Smyth
Info: This discussion will examine how Defence Team leaders are identifying and prioritizing future capability requirements in an increasingly complex security environment. Panelists will discuss force development priorities, emerging technology requirements, and how procurement decisions can better support operational readiness and modernization objectives across the Canadian Armed Forces. Moderated by Chris Ayotte.
🕑: 09:50 AM - 10:50 AM
Panel II: Changing Sources of Supply
Host: Jerry McGinn
Info: Global geopolitical shifts and growing concerns around supply chain resilience are reshaping how Canada approaches defence procurement. This panel will explore opportunities to diversify sources of supply, strengthen partnerships with allies, build domestic industrial capacity, and support Canada's broader defence industrial objectives. Moderated by Simon Page.
🕑: 10:50 AM - 11:20 AM
Coffee Break
Info: Sponsored by AGDA
🕑: 11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
Panel III: How Are Defence Agencies Changing?
Host: Wendy Hadwen
Info: As the Government of Canada introduces new structures and responsibilities across the defence procurement ecosystem, this panel will examine the evolving roles of key organizations responsible for capability development, procurement, and industrial policy. Speakers will discuss how these changes are intended to improve procurement outcomes, streamline decision-making, and support implementation of Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy.
🕑: 11:55 AM - 12:45 PM
Panel IV: Optimizing Procurement Processes
Host: Heather Sheehy
Info: As Canada moves to accelerate defence spending and deliver capabilities more quickly, attention is increasingly focused on modernizing the procurement system itself. This discussion will bring together leaders from government, industry, and advisory organizations to examine how procurement processes can become more agile, efficient, and responsive to operational requirements. Panelists will explore governance reform, project approval timelines, risk management, industry engagement, and opportunities to reduce barriers while maintaining accountability and oversight.
🕑: 12:45 PM - 02:00 PM
Lunch
Info: Sponsored by RTX
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:50 PM
Panel V: Industry Reactions
Host: Jim Landon
Info: Representatives from across Canada's defence and security sector will offer their perspectives on the federal government's evolving defence procurement agenda. The discussion will examine opportunities and challenges for industry, expectations regarding the Defence Industrial Strategy, and priorities for strengthening Canada's defence industrial base. Moderated by Nicole Butler.
🕑: 02:50 PM - 03:10 PM
Coffee Break
🕑: 03:10 PM - 04:10 PM
Panel VI: Priorities of Service Chiefs
Host: LGen Speiser-Blanchet
Info: Senior Canadian Armed Forces leaders will discuss the strategic priorities shaping capability investments across the services. The conversation will focus on operational requirements, emerging threats, interoperability with allies, and the technology and equipment needed to fulfill Canada's defence commitments at home and abroad. Moderated by Charlotte Duval-Lantoine.
🕑: 04:10 PM - 04:40 PM
Keynote Address
Host: Christiane Fox
🕑: 04:45 PM - 04:50 PM
Closing Remarks
Host: David Perry
🕑: 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Networking Cocktail Reception
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 215.44 to CAD 349.16
