Private Contractors Play Growing Role in Military, Says CAE Chief Exec

CAE Inc. chief executive Marc Parent says a growing reliance on private contractors by Western armed forces—including Canada’s—bodes well for his company and global security, even as questions linger around spending and accountability. In an interview, Mr. Parent said rising geopolitical tensions are prompting a military build-up that means governments contending with personnel shortfalls depend increasingly on private sector firms for everything from catering and construction to hired guns. Last month, a joint venture between Montreal-based CAE and B.C.-based KF Aerospace secured an $11.2-billion contract to train aircrews and provide simulators for the Royal Canadian Air Force....