In Oromocto, New Brunswick, one of Canada’s most critical Army training hubs is set for a major transformation. Backed by more than $1 billion in federal investment, Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Gagetown is entering a new phase—one that reflects both the urgency of today’s security environment and the scale of Canada’s long-term defence ambitions.

Announced on April 1, 2026, the investment signals a decisive move to modernize infrastructure at the country’s primary army training area. It will recapitalize facilities, introduce new ground-based air defence systems, and ensure that soldiers train in an environment designed to support operations for decades to come.

The announcement comes amid a broader national effort to rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces. Over the past year, Canada has accelerated defence spending, reaching NATO’s 2% of GDP benchmark ahead of schedule. But as officials emphasized, that milestone is only the beginning.

At CFB Gagetown, the impact will be immediate and far-reaching. Enhanced training infrastructure will strengthen operational readiness at one of Canada’s most important Army bases. Modernized facilities and expanded transition services will support military members and their families. And for New Brunswick, the investment is expected to generate jobs, stimulate local industry, and contribute to long-term regional growth.

“Through investments at CFB Gagetown, we are strengthening Canada’s defence capabilities while delivering real benefits for New Brunswick. These initiatives support our Canadian Armed Forces members, enhance training and readiness, and contribute to a strong and resilient local economy,” stated the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy.

The scale of the investment reflects a shift toward sustained, whole-of-government defence planning—one that integrates operational capability with economic development. Over the next decade, Canada is expected to deliver half a trillion dollars in defence spending, aligning with a new NATO target of 5% of GDP by 2035.

“This investment at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown strengthens the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces and delivers real, lasting benefits for our members, their families, and the wider community. By modernizing critical infrastructure and advancing world-class training capabilities, we are ensuring our forces are ready to defend Canada and stand with our allies in an increasingly complex security environment. At the same time, we are supporting Canadian industry and creating good jobs. This is how Canada is stepping up, meeting our NATO commitments and building a stronger, more secure future for Canadians,” conveyed the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence.

Central to delivering these capabilities is a modernized procurement approach, driven by the Defence Investment Agency. The goal: move faster, streamline acquisition, and ensure the Canadian Armed Forces receive the tools they need when they need them.

“Meeting Canada’s defence commitments requires us to move faster, work differently, and grow our industrial base here at home. Through the Defence Investment Agency, we are accelerating defence procurement to deliver the capabilities the Canadian Armed Forces need—when they need them. Our generational investments in bases like CFB Gagetown will move forward under a modernized procurement process that strengthens Canada’s security, supports good jobs, and ensures long-term value for Canadians,” explained the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement).

For the region, the significance of CFB Gagetown extends well beyond its military role. As a cornerstone of Atlantic Canada’s defence ecosystem, the base supports operations across the country while anchoring economic activity in New Brunswick.

“The CFB Gagetown Range and Training Area is crucial to defence operations in New Brunswick and all of Canada. These new upgrades will ensure that our soldiers are training on infrastructure that is built to sustain military operations for years to come. These are important investments in Atlantic Canada which will see upgraded transition centres with new funding to support soldiers both during their service and as they transition back to civilian life,” said the Honourable Wayne Long, Secretary of State (Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions).

Local leadership underscored the transformative potential of the investment—not only for the military, but for the broader community and regional economy.

“I’m thrilled to see this historic investment in 5CDSB Gagetown. It will be transformative for our troops, our community, our region, and our country. These are generational investments in our CAF that will ensure they have the equipment and facilities they need to operate in an ever-evolving defence landscape. In our region, this will bring good jobs, dynamic industries, and a growing defence sector that will continue to lead on a national scale,” expressed David Myles, MP Fredericton-Oromocto, Parliamentary Secretary.

As Canada charts its defence future, investments like this one at CFB Gagetown are setting the foundation—not only for operational readiness, but for a stronger, more resilient national defence posture in an increasingly complex world.