Overview of the Promise

During his campaign for prime minister, Mark Carney pledged to establish the Bureau of Research, Engineering and Advanced Leadership in Science (BOREALIS). The goal was to provide the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the Communications Security Establishment (CSE) with domestically developed innovation solutions in key areas including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, cybersecurity, and other advanced technologies. This initiative aimed to enhance Canada's defense capabilities, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and foster homegrown technological advancements amid growing international tensions.

Actions Taken by the Government

Following his election, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the establishment of BOREALIS in April 2025 as part of a broader strategy to bolster national defense and sovereignty. This announcement emphasized a "made in Canada" approach to defense procurement, focusing on supporting domestic businesses and innovation in frontier technologies. In June 2025, the government further detailed plans for BOREALIS, positioning it as a new agency dedicated to advancing research in AI, quantum computing, and related fields to ensure technological superiority and safeguard Canadian interests.

The initiative has been linked to modernizing defense systems, including NORAD upgrades, and creating high-paying jobs through investments in these technologies. Official statements highlight BOREALIS's role in equipping the CAF and CSE with cutting-edge, domestically sourced tools to address emerging threats, such as those in cybersecurity and the Arctic region.

Legislation and Implementation Details

No specific legislation has been proposed or passed directly related to the creation of BOREALIS, as it appears to have been initiated through executive government announcements and policy directives rather than parliamentary bills. The establishment is framed within existing frameworks for defense and innovation funding, potentially drawing from budgets allocated to the Department of National Defence and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. Progress includes public commitments to launch the bureau, with announcements indicating it will operate as a dedicated agency for research and engineering leadership.

Progress on Key Promise Elements

The promise specifically targets providing made-in-Canada solutions for the CAF and CSE in AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Announcements confirm BOREALIS's focus on these areas, with emphasis on domestic innovation to reduce U.S. reliance and respond to global threats. For instance, it aims to advance quantum technologies as a strategic capability and integrate AI into defense strategies. However, as of August 2025, while the agency has been officially announced and plans outlined, there is no public evidence of full operational status, such as active projects, staffing completions, or tangible deliverables to the CAF and CSE.

To become kept, BOREALIS must be fully operationalized, with allocated funding, established leadership, and demonstrable outputs like research initiatives or technology deployments benefiting the CAF and CSE by the end of the term. It would be at risk of being broken if funding is withheld, the agency remains dormant without progress, or priorities shift away from domestic innovation in these fields due to budgetary constraints or international pressures.

Challenges and Criticisms

Experts have noted encouragement from Carney's pledges but express concerns about Canada's risk of falling behind in AI and quantum fields without swift implementation. Some analyses highlight the need for clear plans and warn that vague proposals could lead to delays. Additionally, broader discussions on cybersecurity threats, including quantum risks, underscore the urgency for BOREALIS to deliver on its mandate effectively.

Overall Status

This promise is in progress.