MDA Space awarded contract with Canadian Department of National Defence to deliver Ground-Based Optical Capability for Space Surveillance

Executive Summary

• MDA Space Ltd. has been awarded a contract by Canada’s Defence Investment Agency to design, deliver, and operate three Ground‑Based Optical (GBO) observatories for the Department of National Defence, valued at approximately $32 million.
• The GBO sites will be installed in Alberta, Manitoba and New Brunswick and are scheduled for completion by 2028, providing persistent space‑surveillance capability to support Canada’s Sapphire satellite and broader space‑domain awareness program.
• MDA Space will also provide long‑term in‑service support and sustainment of the observatories, expanding its role as a trusted mission partner for Canadian defence.

Key Details

• Contract Value: ~ $32 million (CAD) for design, delivery, installation, operation, and sustainment of three GBO observatories.
• Scope of Work:
• Design and construction of three ground‑based optical telescopes.
• Installation at sites in Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick.
• Ongoing operations and in‑service support to ensure long‑term functionality.
• Timeline: Completion and operational capability expected by 2028.
• Strategic Impact: Enhances Canada’s continental defence and space‑domain awareness, complementing the existing Sapphire satellite for detection, tracking, characterization, and monitoring of deep‑space objects.
• Customer: Department of National Defence (DND) via the Defence Investment Agency (DIA).
• Quotes:
• Mike Greenley, CEO – highlighted the importance of persistent surveillance in an increasingly contested space environment.
• The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement) – emphasized the contract’s role in strengthening Canada’s security, growing its space sector, and creating good‑paying jobs.

Notable Quotes

• “As space becomes more contested, congested and competitive, persistent surveillance and space domain awareness provides the Canadian Armed Forces and trusted allies with a better understanding of what is happening in a complex environment they can't otherwise see.” – Mike Greenley, CEO, MDA Space
• “Canada's security depends on the space‑based systems that enable everything from communications and navigation to weather forecasting and emergency response… Today's contract award to MDA Space will deliver the capabilities the Canadian Armed Forces need while growing Canada's world‑class space sector and creating good‑paying jobs.” – The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)