About RUSI(NS)

The Royal United Services Institute of Nova Scotia, RUSI(NS), is a not-for-profit association of retired and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, other government departments and agencies, and people who support the advancement of Canadian defence, security and safety affairs.  Members participate in presentations and discussions, and correspond with government and the public, educating our communities and generally raising awareness of the importance of our military, security and safety services.

RUSI(NS) was incorporated in 1928 under the laws of Nova Scotia.  The Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia is the Institute’s patron.  The Institute is formally recognized and supported by the Department of National Defence as a defence association to the extent that RUSI(NS) is accommodated at Canadian Forces Base Halifax and has senior officers of the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Army and the Royal Canadian Air Force on its board.  Representatives of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Transport Canada, Canadian Border Services Agency and Canadian Coast Guard also sit on the board.

The Institute publishes papers, comments and notes, and posts information to its social media accounts.  Members of the Institute regularly converse with senior members of the Forces and other organizations, and receive briefings on relevant topics and weekly and quarterly newsletters.  At times, special discussions are organized with serving members, academia and the media.  All these efforts support the Institute’s aim by sharing information broadly about the services that provide our defence, security and safety.

The Institute’s Security Affairs Committee writes and speaks on a wide range of topics, and the Institute’s Veterans Affairs Committee is active advocating on behalf of support for veterans.

RUSI(NS) welcomes written material of any length from anyone, and also welcomes attention being drawn to material otherwise available.

RUSI(NS) meets monthly, usually at the Royal Artillery Park Officers’ Mess, Canadian Forces Base Halifax.  When appropriate, the Institute meets online.

Members of RUSI(NS) welcome the opportunity to discuss current defence, security and safety issues or to provide context and background on issues and developments.  They offer a wealth of experience in a number of areas, including defence policy, operations at home and abroad, military equipment, and history and heritage.