AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File
Pentagon raises concerns over Canada’s defence response, F-35 delays, and spending plans as North American security talks intensify.
Secret Paper Sparks Fresh Tension
A new tension has surfaced between the United States and Canada over defence planning. A senior U.S. defence official says the Pentagon sent Canada a classified document that outlines key priorities for a shared North American defence strategy.
However, the same official says Ottawa did not deliver what Washington calls a “credible” response. Moreover, this gap has quickly become a growing irritant in the partnership.
In addition, the discussion took place under the Trump administration, which has been pushing for clearer commitments from allies. As a result, pressure on Canada has increased.
Ottawa’s Response Raises Questions
Canada reportedly said it would align with the U.S. approach on defence priorities. However, U.S. officials expected a more detailed and structured plan.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon argues that broad agreement is not enough. Instead, it wants clear steps showing how Canada will support shared defence goals under NORAD, Arctic security, and NATO commitments.
Furthermore, officials say Canada has not yet shown how it will fully meet new defence expectations.
At the same time, Canada’s Defence Minister David McGuinty’s office has not confirmed whether it received the classified paper.
F-35 Delays Add More Friction
In addition, U.S. officials point to Canada’s delayed decision on the purchase of F-35 fighter jets made by Lockheed Martin.
Moreover, they say this delay adds frustration at a time when both countries face rising security concerns.
Meanwhile, Ottawa continues its review of the deal. However, critics in Washington describe the process as slow and unclear.
Consequently, this issue now feeds into broader worries about defence coordination.
Rising Spending Pressure from NATO Targets
Canada says it has increased defence spending in recent years. For example, it spent $63.4 billion in 2025 and reached NATO’s 2% GDP target for the first time.
Furthermore, Canada plans to spend more than $82 billion over five years on military capability.
In contrast, U.S. officials argue that spending alone is not enough. Instead, they want proof that investments match shared defence needs.
Meanwhile, NATO members have also agreed to aim for much higher spending targets by 2035. As a result, pressure continues to grow on all allies, including Canada.
U.S. Freezes Key Defence Forum
In a major move, the U.S. has paused meetings of the Permanent Joint Board on Defence. This forum has existed since 1940 and guides Canada-U.S. defence cooperation.
Elbridge Colby, a senior Pentagon policy official, said the pause allows a review of how useful the forum remains.
Moreover, U.S. officials say they want to rethink how Canada contributes to continental defence, including missile defence plans often linked to Washington’s future “Golden Dome” concept.
Experts Warn of Communication Gap
Some experts say this dispute reflects a deeper communication problem between the two allies.
For instance, Jamie Tronnes of the Center for North American Prosperity and Security says both sides may interpret messages differently. She notes that what Canada sees as dialogue, the U.S. may see as instruction.
Furthermore, she argues that Canada is improving its NATO commitments. However, she also says it still needs clearer capability-focused planning.
Meanwhile, former federal budget officer Kevin Page urges Ottawa to publish a clearer long-term defence funding plan. In addition, he says transparency will be key to meeting future NATO targets.
What Happens Next?
Overall, both countries still share strong defence ties. However, tensions are rising over expectations, timing, and spending plans.
In addition, upcoming decisions on fighter jets and NATO commitments could shape the next phase of the relationship. For now, both sides remain in close contact, but trust will depend on clearer plans and faster action.
