The Canadian Armed Forces serves Canada by defending our values, interests, and sovereignty at home and abroad.
However, the Canadian Armed Forces is also experiencing a shortfall in personnel that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and Canada-wide labour shortages.
That is why we are undertaking significant reconstitution efforts to make us a stronger and more effective organization.
On October 6, 2022, we released the Canadian Armed Forces Reconstitution Directive that is focused on rebuilding the strength and number of our members, and the structures necessary to defend and protect Canadians.
We want every Canadian to see service to Canada within the Canadian Armed Forces as a first-rate career choice, and we are prioritizing efforts that strengthen how we recruit, retain, and take care of our people.
This includes creating an environment where members feel welcomed, valued, and safe.
This period of reconstitution and modernization is essential to ensure that the Canadian Armed Forces is optimized to meet current and future security needs both at home and abroad.
Key Facts
Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Reconstitution Directive
Released October 6, 2022, the CAF Reconstitution Directive will help ensure the long-term viability of the CAF through an in-depth analysis and prioritization of all tasks, operations, plans, and activities.
The directive focuses on two priority areas:
People:
Every Canadian needs to see the CAF as a first-rate career choice, where they will feel welcome, valued, and safe to bring their talents to bear in service to our country.
To attract and retain talent from across Canada, the Military Personnel Management System needs to be modernized to support CAF members so that they can achieve their goals and have fulfilling and successful careers.
Similarly, policies that directly address the stressors of military service will see further refinement to enhance retention and demonstrate a commitment to our people.
To support recruitment, retention and reconstitution efforts, National Defence is taking steps to ensure that current and prospective Canadian Armed Forces members have financial security for them and their families, modern infrastructure, modern equipment and meaningful work at home and abroad.
Operations:
Limited staff capacity means bold steps must be taken to rationalize activities, reduce process limitations, and cease activities that do not directly contribute to the growth of the CAF, operations, or modernization.
Readiness will be further reinforced by developing operational capacity in the burgeoning domains of cyber and space.
