If I’ve learned anything from the Ukrainian people outside of how to be happy while being pounded by your superpower neighbor, it’s that Canada needs some Mother Fucken drones.

A LOT of them.

It’s Time to Swarm the Skies

Canada has long prided itself on being a peaceful, reasonable, and diplomatic nation. But let’s get real—diplomacy alone won’t stop a hypersonic missile, a drone swarm, or a military power setting its sights on the Arctic. With Russia openly discussing control of northern territories, China eyeing new trade routes, and the U.S. increasingly unpredictable, it’s time for Canada to arm itself with the weapon of the future: drones. And not just a few—we’re talking thousands, maybe even millions.

If Ukraine has taught us anything, it’s that a smaller country with cutting-edge technology, resilience, and innovative defense strategies can stand up to much larger, more aggressive adversaries. The question isn’t if Canada should build an armada of drones; it’s why we haven’t started already.

The Three-Front Threat: Why Canada Can’t Sit Back

1. Russia: The Arctic Ambitions and a Looming Shadow
   Russia has been beefing up its Arctic presence for years—new bases, nuclear-powered icebreakers, and long-range bombers patrolling areas it claims as its own. With Putin increasingly desperate to project power, Canada’s northern territories are looking more and more like a tempting target. If we think our polite sovereignty claims will stop Russian expansionism, we haven’t been paying attention.

2. China: Silent but Strategic
   China isn’t launching Arctic invasions just yet, but its Belt and Road Initiative and growing military influence suggest it’s willing to play the long game. Beijing’s interest in Arctic shipping routes and resources means it could leverage economic pressure, cyberwarfare, or outright military presence in ways Canada isn’t prepared to counter.

3. The United States: Friend Today, Wild Card Tomorrow
   Canada and the U.S. have always had a complex relationship—great allies, yes, but history is littered with moments when Washington didn’t exactly have Ottawa’s best interests at heart. With increasing isolationist rhetoric, political instability, and economic pressures, the idea of the U.S. acting aggressively toward its northern neighbor isn’t as absurd as it once seemed. If push comes to shove, Canada needs to be prepared.

I feel like Canada would be wise to start building a Drone army.

Yesterday.

— Dean Blundell🇨🇦 (@ItsDeanBlundell) February 26, 2025

The Ukraine Model: Why We Need a Drone Army NOW

Ukraine has revolutionized modern warfare with drones. By leveraging cheap, effective, and swarming technology, it has been able to counter a much larger and more heavily armed Russian force. Canada should take notes—and take action.

Ok, so this is a Russian soldier running away from a Ukrainian drone. He catches the drone and the operator detonates the charge.

I’m not comfortable with this. Yes he’s an orc, but he’s running away, no weapon.

Serious ethical issues to face in future regarding use of drones. pic.twitter.com/01ypAMZgnV

— Andrew Fox (@Mr_Andrew_Fox) September 10, 2024

Drones: The Canadian Game Changer

1. Surveillance & Reconnaissance
   High-altitude drones can provide real-time intel on Arctic movements, coastal threats, and military buildups. Knowing what’s happening before it happens is half the battle.

2. Unmanned Combat Squadrons
   Canada doesn’t need to outgun its rivals—it needs to outthink them. Smart, AI-driven drone swarms could neutralize threats before they reach Canadian soil.

3. Coastal & Arctic Defense
   Instead of just relying on old-school naval patrols, a network of autonomous drones could monitor illegal fishing, submarine activity, and unauthorized territorial incursions.

4. Electronic Warfare & Cyber Drones
   Warfare isn’t just about guns anymore—it’s about disrupting enemy communications, jamming systems, and launching cyber counterattacks. Autonomous hacking drones? Yes, please.

The Cost of Complacency: Why Canada Needs to Invest Billions Yesterday

The classic counterargument is cost. Where would Canada get the money to build a national drone program? Here’s the reality check: the cost of NOT having a robust drone defense strategy will be infinitely higher.

• Spending now prevents future disasters. A full-scale Arctic conflict or invasion attempt would cost trillions in economic damage, infrastructure loss, and human suffering.
• It’s cheaper than conventional forces. A fighter jet costs $100M+, but a fleet of combat drones can be built and deployed for a fraction of the price.
• Canada has the technology and expertise. We have aerospace giants like Bombardier, AI research hubs in Montreal and Toronto, and advanced robotics firms. The pieces are there—we just need the will.

Final Word: If Canada Doesn’t Arm Itself with Drones, Someone Else Will

The world is shifting. The age of stable, single-superpower dominance is fading, and the rise of a multipolar world means greater competition, more conflicts, and an increased risk of territorial disputes. Canada cannot afford to wait.

Suppose we follow Ukraine’s lead and invest aggressively in drone warfare. In that case, Canada can punch far above its weight, protect its sovereignty, and avoid becoming a pawn in someone else’s grand strategy. The choice is clear: build the drones now or regret it later.