USAWC Strategy Research Project: An Evaluation of the Canadian-Us Armies Reserve Relationship

Abstract

The Armies Reserve of Canada and the United States have held six general officer summits since 1999. The purpose of these summits is to: forge personal relationships; exchange information; improve interoperability by training individuals and units in each other’s formations; and improve overall capabilities by training reserve soldiers in each other’s core competencies. But, senior leadership in both armies at national headquarters level and at major command level are oblivious to these meetings and to their potential. Furthermore, the activities of this forum are usually not coordinated, either vertically or horizontally, with other international activities of higher headquarters.

This study evaluates the Canada-US Armies Reserve relationship using the process of the American Army International Activities Plan. First, it measures the stated purpose of this forum against national policy and doctrine of both countries. Then, it evaluates the value of the forum to national security using three criteria: the number and rank of senior leadership that attend; the perceptions of senior leadership as to the utility of this forum; and the work accomplished, on-going, and planned of the forum.

The evaluation is that the forum is consistent with national policy and that it does have value and great potential. It is relevant and good for national security. However, the relationship must be reinvigorated with Terms of Reference and a strategic sponsor. That sponsor should be NORTHCOM in order to “put in place a framework and structure that transcends the personalities of the participants.”