CAE Chief Executive States Private Contractors are Playing an Increasingly Important Role in the Military

CAE Inc. chief executive Marc Parent acknowledges the increasing reliance on private contractors by Western armed forces, including Canada’s, as beneficial for his company and global security. Despite concerns about spending and accountability, Mr. Parent sees this trend as a positive development.

Mr. Parent highlighted that escalating geopolitical tensions have led to a military build-up, resulting in governments facing personnel shortages turning to private sector firms for various services, ranging from catering and construction to security personnel.

Recently, a CAE and KF Aerospace joint venture secured an $11.2-billion contract to train aircrews and provide simulators for the Royal Canadian Air Force, signifying a significant expansion of CAE’s role in Air Force training. The partnership aims to take on additional responsibilities such as training support crews and acquiring trainer aircraft.

Experts like David Perry, president of the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, emphasize the critical role that companies play in filling vital gaps for armed forces dealing with complex technological combat scenarios.

However, the Costs of War project at Brown University cautions that military budgets are increasingly allocated to contractors with limited accountability for the use of funds.

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