In response to President-elect Donald Trump’s security concerns at the U.S.-Canada border, Public Safety Minister David McGuinty announced that Canada would deploy helicopters, including Black Hawks, along with a range of other measures, such as drones, to enhance border patrol operations.
“We have deployed 60 new drones along our border with the United States, and we will be deploying additional surveillance towers. We are acquiring new technology such as X-rays, mobile X-rays, and handheld chemical analyzers,” said McGuinty in a press conference.
“As of this week, we are deploying new helicopters at the Canada-U.S. border. Absolutely committed to work with all provinces and territories.”
“We are deploying new helicopters at the Canada-U.S. border. These will help us to further enhance our border surveillance and our intelligence operations again with our American partners,” said McGuinty.
Two of the RCMP's Black Hawks will be operational as soon as January 17.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced that Canada’s recent visa restrictions have resulted in a substantial 89% reduction in illegal crossings into the U.S. since June 2024.
It has been previously reported that Prime Minister Trudeau was prepared to increase border security measures by acquiring new helicopters for patrol operations.
In December 2024, the federal government unveiled its proposal to establish a joint strike force and create an “around-the-clock” aerial surveillance unit at ports of entry as part of its strategy to address the challenges at the U.S.-Canada border due to mounting pressure from Trump.
“We must work together to protect our people, our jobs, and our economy,” said McGuinty.
“Last month, our government presented a comprehensive border plan to bolster the security of our shared border and further increase the level of collaboration with our American counterparts.”
The federal government’s fall economic statement unveiled several announcements, including the planned North American joint strike force.
This announcement was part of the $1.3 billion for enhanced border security measures, which will involve deploying additional personnel, advanced technology, drones, surveillance equipment, and helicopters.
The Trudeau government has ended “flag polling,” which is when foreign nationals leave Canada for a short time and reenter Canada to access immigration services more quickly.
“Ending this practice will allow border officers to fully concentrate on border enforcement, saving 8,000 days of work for border agents,” said McGuinty.
Since Parliament is prorogued until March 24, new spending measures cannot be passed.
However, measures that can be implemented without legislation can still proceed.