I really want to prove you wrong, and I think you would want me to do so as well!
The biggest problem is not the technology that's missing, its every Prime Minister acting like deadbeat dads to the Navy. Always promising to do something, then pulling up way short on money and commitment when the time comes. These politicians see the world more like the Matrix, except everything is dollar signs to them.
While working at the CBC I came across a news film of HMCS Protectoreur just launched and the navy spokesman stating the ship is good for 20 Years!
And here we are today still waiting, and waiting and...
Hats off to all in the Navy in what they have achieved so far despite the political inference.
On another note, I've informally questioned many Canadians from Managing Directors and lower over the years, and some responses stand out such as, "The US won't let anything happen to us" or "Who would want to attack us".
The only answer that I can see is to commit at minimum 2% GNP directly to a separate Military Treasury that can't be clawed back.
Let the professionals do what they do best and keep the Politicians out where feasibly possible.
If you want to "visit the fence at the end of the back yard" you are better off having a base at the end of your yard, which could be achievable by building it in southern Canada in a large container ship/tanker, and having the advantage to move it various places in the Arctic.
Its even possible to build an enclosed floating submarine dock for the Arctic eliminating wasteful travel time back south but without the will...
I wouldn't get your hope for anything unless there is drastic change in how things are done at the top.
Rant over.