QSA's Week in Defence (#14, 2025)
HMCS Ville de Québec departs for Indo-Pacific; China conducts military drills near Taiwan; Arrest made in weapons smuggling case; MPs discuss defense spending and alliances.

Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning Canada's national defence, cybersecurity, border security, weapons systems, military commitments, and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.
Start Date: 2025-04-06
End Date: 2025-04-12
Top Headlines
Main Stories
HMCS Ville de Québec Embarks on Operation HORIZON
The HMCS Ville de Québec has set sail from Halifax, joining the UK's Carrier Strike Group in a mission that illustrates Canada’s commitment to Indo-Pacific security. Operation HORIZON highlights the Royal Canadian Navy's capability to work with international allies in promoting peace and stability. This deployment aims to strengthen diplomatic and military partnerships amidst complex security challenges in the region.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
G7 Condemns China's Military Drills Near Taiwan
The G7 Foreign Ministers, including Canada, expressed grave concerns over China's recent military activities around Taiwan. These drills are viewed as destabilizing and increase tensions in the Taiwan Strait, prompting calls for peaceful resolution through dialogue. The statement reiterates the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region, which is crucial for global security.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Public Officials' Social Media
MP Maninder Sidhu on Defence Spending
MP Maninder Sidhu emphasized the need to reduce reliance on the U.S. for defense procurement, advocating for increased investment in Canada's domestic industry as defense spending targets rise.
Sources: Social Media: x.com
MP Kevin Vuong's Call to Support Ukraine
MP Kevin Vuong highlighted the emerging alliances between Russia and countries like Iran and North Korea, urging continued support for Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Sources: Social Media: x.com
MP Parm Bains Announces Funding for Richmond
MP Parm Bains celebrated securing $640 million in funding for Richmond, covering projects from harbor dredging to aerospace investments, aimed at boosting local economic growth and infrastructure.
Sources: Social Media: x.com
Senator Stan Kutcher Urges Action for Ukraine
Senator Stan Kutcher called for active measures to support Ukraine, suggesting that democracies need to close skies and supply lines to better counter military assets from Russia.
Sources: Social Media: x.com
What We're Reading This Week
- Parsons Biodefense Contract: Parsons secures $24 million biodefense contract.
- Surge In Global Defense Budgets Impacting Drone Market: Increased defense budgets globally are influencing the military drone market.
- Serco Awarded $96 Million U.S. Navy Contract: Serco's new contract supports the development of the U.S. Navy's combat vessels.