Pakistan, Feb. 10 -- Canada is confronting urgent decisions to strengthen its armed forces as geopolitical tensions rise and long-standing structural challenges threaten the effectiveness of its military operations. Experts warn reform is as crucial as funding.

A recent discussion hosted by the Canadian Defence Academy Institute highlighted concerns over recruitment, retention, and outdated equipment. Officials including General (Ret'd) Tom Lawson and Vice Chair Wendy Gilmour emphasized decades of underinvestment have left serious capability gaps.

While federal announcements suggest increased defence spending, experts argue money alone cannot solve systemic problems. Improving personnel quality of life, modernizing training programs, an...