Measuring growth by boots on the ground is not useful or even relevant . Modern war will be remote and equipment intensive. Are we to be a mini-power able to respond modestly to everything with a few boots and 5 planes.......or a major power taking complete responsibility for the Arctic and the Arctic approaches. This latter role plays to our strengths and interests in defence, commerce and environment. Spend serious money on ice breakers and ice hardened hulls for ships and a load of F18s with their 2 engines and Growler companions  to patrol the North .