Canadians Show Increased Support for Military

A recent poll conducted by Nanos Research for The Globe and Mail indicates a notable shift in Canadian public perception of the military, with positive views on the rise. The survey, carried out in early March, suggests that government announcements regarding increased defence funding and military recruitment are positively influencing public sentiment.

Key Findings of the Nanos Research Poll

Nik Nanos, chief data scientist for Nanos Research, highlighted the narrative surrounding investment in new military assets – including fighter jets, ships, submarines, and infantry equipment – as a key factor in this positive shift. The poll demonstrates an increased willingness among Canadians to serve in the armed forces, both full-time and part-time, should a major conflict arise.

Willingness to Serve Increases

The survey highlights a substantial increase in the percentage of respondents willing to serve in the military during a major conflict. Specifically, 24% expressed a willingness to serve full-time, a significant jump from 12% in a similar survey conducted in November 2025. Part-time reserve service willingness rose to 32% from 19% over the same period.

National Pride and Regional Variations

These figures suggest a growing sense of national pride and a willingness to contribute to the country’s defence. Age demographics also revealed differences, with those aged 18 to 34 showing a greater inclination to serve full-time compared to those aged 55 and over. Overall, 58% of respondents expressed a positive impression of the Canadian Forces, and approximately three-quarters stated the Armed Forces make them proud to be Canadian.

Regional variations were also observed, with Atlantic Canada demonstrating the highest level of approval.

Expert Commentary and Government Implications

Former military officials, including Wayne Eyre, Canada’s former chief of defence staff, and Tom Lawson, a former Royal Canadian Air Force general, have commented on the poll’s findings. Eyre stated the results provide the government with increased public support for continued investment in defence. Lawson noted a significant change in public attitude towards the military compared to previous decades.

Canada's Defence Spending Commitments

Canada’s commitment to achieving spending targets, including reaching 2% of its GDP on defence – after years of falling short – and a further commitment to reach 5% by 2035, underscores the nation’s determination to modernize and strengthen its military. The survey results align with this trend.

Survey Methodology

The poll surveyed 1,058 Canadians aged 18 and older between March 1 and 8, with a margin of error of plus-or-minus three percentage points, 19 times out of 20. This provides valuable insight into evolving perspectives on Canada’s military and national security.