From 2006 to 2015, Stephen Harper and Conservative MPs like me ended the previous Chretien-Martin "decade of darkness" in the Canadian Forces. Before the election of Stephen Harper's Conservative Government, soldiers, sailors and airmen had been under-equipped and their safety was poorly served by the equipment they were asked to use.

We had more to do.

But, once again, the Liberals led by Justin Trudeau are putting Canada's defence and its international defence obligations on the back burner.

This must stop.

As Leader of the Conservative Party and Leader of the Opposition, I will fight any attempt by the Trudeau Government to gut our Armed Forces, and as Prime Minister, I will take concrete steps to ensure our men and women in uniform have the equipment and resources they need to accomplish the missions we assign them and uphold our international commitments to NORAD, NATO and elsewhere.

Canada's defence spending is currently less than 1% of GDP, or 23rd out of the 28 NATO countries. As Prime Minister, I will increase the funds going to the Canadian Forces by $1 billion, year over year, UNTIL they are funded at the NATO average defence spending as a percentage of GDP.

Canada and its men and women in uniform simply cannot afford another Trudeau-inspired decade of darkness.

If - like me - you believe that Canada and it's Armed Forces cannot afford another "decade of darkness," I need your help. 

Take action now by making a tax-deductible contribution to my campaign. Your support will help me continue to fight a strong Canadian military and for respect for the men and women in uniform who keep us safe.

To donate online now or by mail click here.

You can also help by voting for me in the upcoming Conservative Party of Canada Leadership Election. To be eligible to vote, please register (or extend your existing registration) using the button on the right. Other members of your family 14 years of age or older who live with you can also vote for me, so don't forget to register them too!. Click here to register.