Overview

• Ottawa awarded C$39 million for two ship-based UAS and C$27 million for five years of sustainment, with options for four more systems under the ISTAR-UAS programme.
• MDA Space will begin integration and testing of the Class-2 UAS aboard Halifax-class frigates in preparation for sea trials and crew training.
• The uncrewed VTOL platforms will feature electro-optical/infrared cameras and maritime radar to extend the navy’s surveillance range beyond 50 nautical miles.
• The UAS fleet is slated to reach initial operational capability by 2027 and full operational readiness by 2032 to bolster long-range maritime surveillance and targeting.
• As a domestic procurement under Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits policy, the contracts are forecast to add C$18 million annually to GDP and sustain about 145 jobs each year.