By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Now-former chief of defence staff Wayne Eyre advocates for Canada to maintain flexibility regarding nuclear weapons, arguing that true strategic independence is unattainable without them. While not advocating for immediate acquisition, Eyre suggests keeping options open due to existing civilian infrastructure and scientific expertise. He also emphasizes the importance of investing in delivery technologies, such as aerospace and missile systems, as a prudent measure against future risks. This stance represents a departure from Canada’s long-standing policy of advocating for non-proliferation and disarmament.
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It’s a thought that might surprise many, but the idea that Canada shouldn’t automatically dismiss the prospect of acquiring nuclear weapons is gaining traction, particularly from the perspective of seasoned military minds. The sentiment is that in today’s unpredictable global landscape, leaving all options on the table, even those as weighty as nuclear deterrence, is simply a prudent course of action.
The core argument revolves around the stark reality of international relations. It’s been observed that major global powers often seem to operate with a selective adherence to the rule of law, a behavior that appears to shift when confronted with the ultimate deterrent: nuclear capability. When a nation possesses such weapons, the narrative suggests, other major players are far more inclined to engage in genuine negotiation and respect their sovereignty.
This viewpoint is amplified by recent historical events that underscore the vulnerability of nations without such a defense. The tragic situation of Ukraine, which willingly relinquished its nuclear arsenal, serves as a potent, albeit somber, example. The subsequent invasion and widespread destruction experienced by the nation are seen by many as a direct consequence of its disarmament, leading to a deeply held belief that not having nuclear weapons can unfortunately invite subjugation.
Looking back, it’s noted that Canada has had the technical expertise and capability to develop nuclear weapons for a long time. Historically, there was even a collaborative nuclear program with Britain during World War II. The issue, it seems, has often been a lack of political will rather than a deficit in knowledge or resources. However, with the current geopolitical climate and perceived shifts in global power dynamics, this perceived lack of political will might be reconsidered.
The concern is that by not having a nuclear deterrent, Canada could find itself in a precarious position, particularly concerning its powerful neighbor to the south. There’s a fear that without this ultimate deterrent, Canada’s sovereignty could be more easily threatened or even compromised, especially in times of shifting alliances or unpredictable leadership in other nations. The idea is that possessing nuclear weapons would compel even the most assertive nations to tread carefully and reconsider any hostile intentions.
Furthermore, the current global environment, marked by escalating tensions and the rise of potentially unpredictable actors, only serves to strengthen the argument for a robust defense. The notion that international powers may not always act in the best interest of allies, or might even be unreliable partners, fuels the desire for greater self-reliance and independent security.
The development of nuclear weapons is not an overnight process, and the input suggests that Canada would need to initiate such efforts immediately to build the necessary infrastructure and technical expertise. This would involve overcoming challenges related to enriching uranium or processing plutonium from existing nuclear waste. However, the underlying sentiment is that the time to start, if this path is to be considered, is now, as the window of opportunity for independent development may not remain open indefinitely.
Ultimately, the argument isn’t necessarily about advocating for an offensive nuclear posture, but rather about establishing a credible deterrent. This deterrent would serve to protect Canadian sovereignty, ensure its voice is heard at the international table, and prevent the nation from becoming a target of aggression or coercion. In a world where nuclear weapons exist and are wielded by certain powers, the prevailing sentiment among those who hold this view is that Canada should not shy away from considering this as a vital component of its national security strategy.