Canadian Forces Base Suffield in southern Alberta is poised for increased military activity this summer, according to the commander of the Canadian Army.
Renewed Focus on Training and Technology
Lieutenant-General Michael Wright announced at the Defence Aerospace and Security Exhibition of Western Canada (DEFSEC West) on Thursday that the base, the country’s largest training area, will be utilized more frequently as a hub for testing latest technology and conducting training exercises.
Wright stated that the base has seen limited use over the past decade, but a renewed agreement between Canada and the United Kingdom will drive increased activity beginning this summer. Investments will be made at CFB Suffield, though Wright clarified these will not involve the large-scale troop deployments seen in the past.
A History of International Collaboration
The base has a long history of international military cooperation, dating back to the early 1970s when the British Army began sending troops to Suffield for armour training. This arrangement continued until the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
In 2021, reports suggested a potential British withdrawal, but then-U.K. Defence Minister Ben Wallace indicated training might be shifted to other locations. In 2023, the U.K. Defence ministry announced a planned reduction in operations, while committing £17 million ($31 million) to maintaining the British Army Training Unit Suffield.
Currently, the U.K. Has planned two training missions at Suffield for 2025-26, with a further mission slated for 2027. Wright indicated the British Army is planning for even greater use of the facility. Canadian reserve units also utilize the base for training, some of whom participate in the NATO mission in Latvia. Defence Research Development Canada hosts allied biological and chemical agent training annually.
Wright emphasized the importance of utilizing the base as the Canadian Army and Armed Forces continue to develop, stating the need for large-scale training capabilities across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of CFB Suffield?
CFB Suffield is the country’s largest training area and will be used increasingly as a testing hub for new technology and for increased training.
What role does the United Kingdom play at CFB Suffield?
The U.K. Has a long-standing agreement with Canada regarding the use of CFB Suffield for training purposes, and is investing £17 million ($31 million) in maintaining the British Army Training Unit Suffield.
Is CFB Suffield used by Canadian forces alone?
No, CFB Suffield is also used by Canadian reserve units for training, and hosts allied biological and chemical agent training conducted by Defence Research Development Canada.
As the Canadian military modernizes, what challenges and opportunities might arise from increased activity at CFB Suffield?
