Power Series

Today, Canada faces a more complex and dangerous security landscape than at any time since the Second World War. The country is at an inflection point, facing two great power competitors, a complicated ecosystem of malign non-state actors, persistent pressures eroding the rules based international order, and an uncertain partnership with the United States. This conference will bring together academics, experts, and serving and retired naval and coast guard personnel to examine the emerging maritime security threats facing Canada and offer ideas for a path forward. 

This conference will bring together academics, experts, and serving and retired naval and coast guard personnel to examine the emerging maritime security threats facing Canada and offer ideas for a path forward. Presentations and discussion will focus on several key questions:

• What threats does Canada face and how do we prioritize them?
• What platforms and capabilities are needed to meet emerging challenges?
• How does Canada manage hybrid and below-threshold security threats?
• How does Canada recapitalize its fleets to fit into a broader alliance framework?
• How does Canada manage a hostile USA?
• How does Canada prepare for war?

Join us in Calgary to discuss these vital questions and build a better understanding of what Canada needs to survive and thrive in the years ahead.

The Centre for Military, Security and Strategic Studies (CMSS) was glad to host the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Centennial Conference on 14-15 November 2024. Spearheaded by University of Calgary professors of History, Dr. David Bercuson and Dr. John Ferris, “RCAF Centennial Conference” celebrated the 100th anniversary of the RCAF over two full days of excellent speakers and panels. The RCAF has faced and overcome incredible challenges in the last 100 years and continues to both excel and represent Canada on the world stage. Featuring retired fighter pilots of the cold war, academic experts, government officials, and military leaders of the RCAF, this conference explored and lauded the social, political, economic, and strategic might of the RCAF throughout its 100-year history. Through the generous support of our sponsors, this conference aimed to bring this history and its many considerations before the public.

Conference program | PDF

Canada company banquet photos