Department of National Defence

The Department of National Defence (DND) is Canada's largest federal department by budget, established to support the Canadian Armed Forces in defending Canadian national interests domestically and internationally. Founded as a civilian organization separate from the military, DND provides administrative, logistical, and policy support to the Canadian Armed Forces, which comprises the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, and Royal Canadian Air Force. Led by the Minister of National Defence and a Deputy Minister, DND oversees defence procurement, infrastructure, personnel management, and international defence relations. The department maintains 6,806 buildings across Canada and operates under the National Defence Act, reporting to Parliament through its minister.