Feds Investing $3B-Plus in Atlantic Canada Military Infra, Defence Ventures

News| March 30, 2026| Monte Stewart

The federal government plans to invest more than $3 billion in infrastructure and defence-related projects across Atlantic Canada.

The funding, announced in Halifax by Prime Minister Mark Carney, includes major upgrades and new facilities in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick aimed at modernising military capabilities and supporting future naval and air operations.

In Nova Scotia, investments include $1.2 billion to modernize power and municipal infrastructure at CFB Halifax Dockyard and its nearby Stadacona headquarters, $648 million for two new aviation support facilities at 14 Wing Greenwood, and more than $180 million for a combatant training and integration centre. The government will also spend $82.5 million to acquire a 475-acre waterfront site known as Halifax Gate and $60 million to build a 140-unit apartment complex for Canadian Armed Forces members near 12 Wing Shearwater.

In New Brunswick, more than $1 billion will go toward upgrades at CFB Gagetown’s range and training area, alongside $20.2 million to improve transition centres for military personnel moving to civilian life.

The announcement comes as Canada reaches NATO’s 2% defence spending target, years ahead of schedule, following a broader push to rebuild and expand the country’s military capacity. U.S. President Donald Trump had criticized Ottawa on a number of occasions for failing to meet the targe.

“In moments of crisis, when people see the Maple Leaf on a sleeve, they see hope. They get help. Canada’s new government made a promise to rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces – and we’re getting it done. In this more fractured and darker world, Canadian leadership will be defined not just by the strength of our values, but also by the value of our strength. The Canadian Armed Forces are the foundation of the strength on which we are building Canada strong and free,” said Carney.

Defence Minister David McGuinty said the spending milestone strengthens Canada’s readiness and global role.

“Reaching the 2% benchmark is a foundational step in renewing Canada’s defence and a clear statement of resolve in a more dangerous world,” he said. “Over the past year, we have made sustained investments in our people, our readiness, and the capabilities the Canadian Armed Forces need to defend this country.”

He said the investments are strengthening Canada at its core – protecting Canadian sovereignty, securing the continent, and reinforcing the country’s role among its allies.

Defence Minister Sean Fraser highlighted the regional impact, particularly in Nova Scotia.

“Atlantic Canada has always punched above its weight when it comes to defending Canada, at home and abroad,” he said. “For the first time since the Cold War, Canada is making the kind of investment our military needs. Here in Nova Scotia, that means good jobs, growing industries, and a defence sector that continues to lead.”

The federal government said the investments are part of a broader, long-term defence strategy that includes scaling up procurement, strengthening domestic defence industries, and expanding international partnerships.

Pictured: Fifth Division Support Base Gagetown in Gagetown, N.B.