NATO spending requires Canada to reach 3.5% of GDP by 2035, but Richard Shimooka sees a problem hidden inside that promise: you can't instantly rebuild decades of missing defence capacity. More money doesn't automatically produce more military capability.

The temptation is to manufacture as much as possible at home. Richard argues Canada can and should maintain some strategic industries, including shipbuilding, while other technologies require foreign suppliers and allied partnerships. Trying to build everything domestically could consume money needed elsewhere.

That leaves Canada balancing a spending target against what its defence system can realistically deliver. Richard questions whether the country has enough experienced people, industrial capacity and time to make the promised increase work as intended.

Topics: NATO Canada, defence procurement, military spending, Canadian military, defence industry

GUEST: Richard Shimooka

Originally aired on 2026-09-28

NATO spending requires Canada to reach 3.5% of GDP by 2035, but Richard Shimooka sees a problem hidden inside that promise: you can't instantly rebuild decades of missing defence capacity. More money doesn't automatically produce more military capability.
The temptation is to manufacture as much as possible at home. Richard argues Canada can and should maintain some strategic industries, including shipbuilding, while other technologies require foreign suppliers and allied partnerships. Trying to build everything domestically could consume money needed elsewhere.
That leaves Canada balancing a spending target against what its defence system can realistically deliver. Richard questions whether the country has enough experienced people, industrial capacity and time to make the promised increase work as intended.
Topics: NATO Canada, defence procurement, military spending, Canadian military, defence industry
GUEST: Richard Shimooka
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-09-28

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.