The Regiments and the Canadian Army of Tomorrow: Are Both Reconcilable?
Abstract
The rapid transformation of the world in the last 15 years, the increased operational tempo and shrinking defense budgets have forced the Canadian Army to think seriously about its transformation. The Army recognizes that this vast enterprise has implications in the fields of education, training, doctrine, technology, and equipment. However, this paper is most concerned about the organizational reengineering of the Canadian Army. After having introduced the current transformation model of the Canadian Army and the constraints of the regimental system, the study defines an optimal structure that should be adopted by the active combat arms units of the Canadian Army. It also proposes to modify its training and regimental systems to better support the new force structure. Regimental narrow-mindedness and constant personnel reshuffling are incompatible with today's battlefield where rapid intervention, flexibility, cohesion, and an expeditionary mindset are essentials. The author contends that the Canadian Army could gain a lot in terms of cohesion and operational effectiveness by adopting permanent combined-arms units to which could be added highly specialized sub-sub units or small detachments based on mission requirements. Such a change requires that the regimental system adapt itself to the current combined-arms reality to maintain its relevance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA509125
Entities
People
- Jocelyn Paul
Organizations
- Marine Corps University