Ford government backs defence industry growth over next decade
Ontario will invest to expand defence manufacturing, with projections of 43,000 jobs and $6 billion in provincial economy gains by 2035.
Ontario's defence sector is getting a major push. The Ford government unveiled a framework Thursday aimed at growing the industry over the next decade, announcing it at CANSEC—the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries conference held in Ottawa.
Premier Doug Ford said the expansion will create 43,000 jobs and contribute $6 billion to the provincial economy while generating over $400 million in annual provincial tax revenue by 2035.
The announcement signals the province's commitment to positioning Ontario as a defence-manufacturing hub. The framework details how government investment and policy will support companies in the sector, though specifics on funding and timelines remain to be detailed.