Oshawa Aims to Be a Key Player in Canada’s Defence Industry

As the federal government increases its focus on Canada’s defence sector, the City of Oshawa is eager to be part of the conversation.

Local leaders believe that Oshawa has what it takes to build, transport, and ship heavy equipment all within one area – thanks to facilities like the Port of Oshawa and the GM Oshawa plant, along with connections to CN and CP rail lines and major highways.

They also point out a research and testing facility at Ontario Tech University that’s linked to NATO’s defence innovation network.

“Other nations have items that they can offer as part of solutions that are required in defence, but we have it all in one particular city,” said Coun. Tito-Dante Marimpietri.

Coun. Tito-Dante Marimpietri led a plan detailing what Oshawa can contribute to the defence sector. He mentions he’s received few updates since presenting it to the federal government in May. (Laura Pedersen/CBC)

Marimpietri spearheaded a blueprint outlining what Oshawa can bring to the defence sector. He said he received limited updates from the federal government since he shared it with them in May.

He decided to make the document public this month to show “how ready” the city is.

“I am disappointed in how Oshawa is often seen and treated,” he said.

Government says it welcomes proposals on defence

Oshawa’s public effort comes just after the federal government unveiled its new Defence Industrial Strategy.

The $6.6-billion strategy sets goals for the next ten years, including plans to buy and maintain most military equipment domestically.

Department of National Defence spokesperson Cheryl Forrest mentioned via email that they welcome ideas “from industry and partners” that could enhance Canada’s defence capabilities.

She stated that proposals are reviewed “to ensure they align with operational requirements and Canada’s long-term security priorities.”

Christian Leuprecht, a professor at both Royal Military College of Canada and Queen’s University, noted that Oshawa’s proactive stance makes sense.

“It’s absolutely sensible for municipalities to show that they are coordinated, that they have the ecosystem for investment and ability to deliver,” he said.

GM says Oshawa could potentially build military vehicles

The blueprint from Oshawa emphasizes its GM plant: in 2024, GM Defense Canada was awarded a $35.8-million contract by Canadian Armed Forces for 90 tactical vehicles – which were manufactured in North Carolina instead.

GM’s Oshawa Assembly could potentially support a federal program aiming to replace light utility vehicles used by military forces, according to Geoff Johnstone, manager of GM Defense Canada. (Mike Cole/CBC)

Geoff Johnstone, manager of GM Defense Canada, mentioned that the Oshawa Assembly “could potentially support” Department of National Defence’s light utility vehicle program but clarified “no decisions or agreements have been made.”

The project aimed at replacing existing fleets was first suggested back in 2017. The government’s website indicates it’s expected completion by 2034.

Ontario Tech’s test facility part of NATO network

A significant aspect of Oshawa’s proposal includes ACE Climatic Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel at Ontario Tech University-a research lab focused on testing various vehicles under extreme weather conditions.

The ACE Climatic Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel at Ontario Tech University can test vehicles in temperatures ranging from -40 C to 60 C. (Ontario Tech University)

This facility can simulate harsh weather scenarios across temperatures from -40 C up to 60 C when testing different vehicles.

A CE is part of NATO DIANA’s network; Les Jacobs-the university’s vice-president for research-stated this means NATO countries collaborate there for testing their defence gear.

If funding increases , Jacobs believes capacity enhancements could be made for heavier military vehicles.

The Port of Oshawa ready for business

Apart from manufacturing , this city highlights its capability regarding transport through outlets such as The Port Of Osahwa.P ort operations handle approximately half-a-million tonnes worth cargo every year , Larissa Fenn – Hamilton-Osh awa port authority Vice President noted.

P ort officials state it serves as an ideal gateway suitable enough even oversized machinery difficult transporting via ground routes possible , materials essential construction steel cement etc. “

“Fenn concluded emphasizing their willingness assist defense sectors noting , ” That’s something we really want take on.”

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