Officials gathered at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown on April 1 to highlight over $1 billion in investments for one of the country’s key army bases.
The investment comes as part of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plan to achieve the NATO 2 per cent defense spending target, which has arrived five years ahead of schedule, according to a federal release.
The news first came from an announcement that Carney made in Halifax last week, where he highlighted investments in Atlantic Canada’s military resources.
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Key investments at CFB Gagetown include $871 million to modernize and rebuild the range and training area, as well as $172 million to establish new ground-based air defence infrastructure.
$20.2 million has gone towards the creation of a transition services building, which is meant to help and support Canadian Armed Forces members and their families through transition between duty and civilian life.
Completion of the 1537 square-metre building’s construction was initially anticipated in March of 2026, but delays might have occurred.
Fredericton-Oromocto MP David Myles says he is thrilled to see the historic investment in CFB Gagetown.
“It will be transformative for our troops, our community, our region, and our country,” said Myles. “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.”
“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,” said Honourable Dominic Leblanc, Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy.
“This investment at CFB Gagetown strengthens the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces and delivers real, lasting benefits for our members, their families, and the wider community,” said the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence. “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.”
