Mayor Scott Gillingham is calling on the federal government to recognize Winnipeg as a cornerstone for Canada's defence expansion, as Ottawa moves to dramatically increase military spending to meet NATO commitments.
With the federal government's substantial new defence investments on the horizon, Winnipeg stands positioned to maximize both national security outcomes and economic growth. The city already hosts critical military infrastructure and world-class aerospace capabilities that make it a natural choice for expanded federal defence operations.
"Winnipeg isn't just ready to serve Canada's defence mission – we're already doing it," said Mayor Gillingham. "From 17 Wing and the Combined Air Operations Centre to our globally competitive aerospace sector, we have the infrastructure, expertise, and community support to help deliver on Canada's new defence commitments."
Strategic Military Hub with Room to Grow
Following a meeting with Defence Minister David McGuinty last month, Mayor Gillingham has united with local leaders to formally present Winnipeg's compelling case to federal decision-makers. The city's defence assets include:
- 17 Wing Winnipeg and two Royal Canadian Air Force headquarters
- Canada’s third-largest aerospace sector featuring industry leaders StandardAero, Boeing, and Magellan
- Emerging opportunities including the Future Aircrew Training program and potential basing of Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft
- College and university programs, a skilled workforce and established supply chains that support defence operations
The initiative has garnered strong backing from Manitoba's business and education leaders, including Manitoba Aerospace, Business Council of Manitoba, Economic Development Winnipeg, Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, Red River College Polytechnic, Winnipeg Construction Association, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, Manitoba Home Builders Association, and Manitoba Chambers of Commerce.
Military Families Choose Winnipeg
Beyond operational advantages, Winnipeg offers military families an exceptional quality of life with affordable housing, robust employment opportunities, top-tier post-secondary institutions, and accessible childcare – factors crucial for recruiting and retaining defence personnel.
Mayor Gillingham emphasized that strategic federal partnerships on key infrastructure projects would further enhance military and aerospace operations, highlighting priorities such as Route 90 and Chief Peguis Trail expansions and completion of the North End Water Pollution Control Centre.
National Security Meets Economic Opportunity
"This represents a win-win opportunity to strengthen Canada's security while cementing Winnipeg's role as a hub for aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and military operations," said Councillor Shawn Dobson, Council Liaison for Veteran and Military Affairs. "Federal defence investments can deliver both national security outcomes and transformative local economic growth."
As Canada moves to align with NATO spending targets, Winnipeg's combination of existing military infrastructure, aerospace expertise, and strategic location positions the city as an ideal destination for expanded defence investments that will serve national interests while driving regional prosperity.