As a result of their deliberations committees may make recommendations which they include in their reports for the consideration of the House of Commons or the Government. Recommendations related to this study are listed below.

Recommendation 1

That, in light of the current situation in Ukraine and rising tensions between the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and Russia, the Government of Canada increase annual defence spending to meet the 2% of gross domestic product commitment agreed to by NATO members in 2014.

Recommendation 2

That, in concert with increasing the amount allocated to defence spending, the Government of Canada undertake a review of the current defence policy and undertake more frequent  defence policy reviews, at a minimum every four years, to ensure that Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces make the right decisions, invest in the right capabilities, and remain ready to address existing and future threats, as well as rapid changes in the global security environment.

Recommendation 3

That the Government of Canada consider the establishment of a long-term military presence in  Europe as a contribution to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s defence and deterrence measures against Russia.

Recommendation 4

That the Government of Canada continue to increase military aid to Ukraine by providing additional lethal and non-lethal military equipment. The Government should also consider providing other forms of military assistance, as well as humanitarian aid.

Recommendation 5

That the Government of Canada continue to invest in modernization of the North American Aerospace Defense Command. As well, on an expeditious basis, the Government should make investments designed to replace the North Warning System.

Recommendation 6

That the Government of Canada enhance Canada’s Arctic and maritime domain awareness by investing in research and development and acquisition of advanced and innovative surveillance technologies. The focus of these efforts could include drones, satellites and other space-based assets, surface and underwater sensors, underwater autonomous vehicles and modern ground-based radar systems. The Government of Canada procure the capabilities that the Canadian Armed Forces needs to ensure Canada's security, sovereignty, and multi-domain awareness in the Arctic and in all of its maritime approaches.

Recommendation 7

That the Government of Canada strengthen Arctic security and sovereignty by expanding and enhancing equipment, training and logistical support to the Canadian Rangers.

Recommendation 8

That the Government of Canada increase the presence of the Canadian Armed Forces, both Regular and Reserve, in Canada’s North, and invest in the infrastructure required to support this increased presence; and that the Government explore the establishment of additional Reserve units in Canada's three territories. These efforts should be undertaken in consultation with relevant Indigenous peoples and communities.

Recommendation 9

That the Government of Canada ensure that Canadian Armed Forces personnel are adequately resourced and trained to operate and defend themselves in a cognitive warfare environment.

Recommendation 10

That the Government of Canada invest in defensive and active cyber operations capabilities. As well, the Government should increase its recruitment and training of cyber specialists in the Canadian Armed Forces and the Communications Security Establishment, and ensure that all federal systems are adequately protected against cyber threats.

Recommendation 11

That the Government of Canada establish strategies, policies and processes designed to ensure the Canadian Armed Force’s ability to recruit a greater number of, as well as more diverse and skilled, personnel. As well, measures should be put in place to improve the retention rate in the Canadian Armed Forces. Finally, the Government should ensure that all Canadian Armed Forces personnel receive adequate training and are properly equipped.

Recommendation 12

That the Government of Canada reform defence procurement processes in Canada to ensure that major weapons systems and military equipment are delivered to the Canadian Armed Forces more expeditiously.

Recommendation 13

That, as soon as possible in order to avoid a capability gap, the Government of Canada launch a procurement project to replace Canada’s Victoria-class submarines. Under that program, the Government should acquire a class of submarines that would be capable of operating in all maritime environments, including the Arctic.

Recommendation 14

That the Government of Canada consider increasing its military investments and presence in the Indo-Pacific region. As well, the Government should develop defence partnerships with like‑minded countries in the region.