On Monday, a reporter sought clarification on how the military would assist law enforcement in Canada. “We’ve called upon the Canadian Armed Forces many times over the past three years to help Canadians respond to wildfires, for floods, for hurricanes,” replied Defence Minister Bill Blair.

“When Canadians needed someone to come to their rescue, we turned to the Canadian Armed Forces,” he said. “And I have to ensure that they have the capability to continue to be there for Canadians.”

The announcement is part of an $8.1 billion commitment by the Department of National Defence over the next five years amid ongoing recruitment challenges.