Telesat enters strategic partnership with Government of Canada and MDA Space to deliver next-generation military satellite communications solution

Executive Summary

• Telesat, the Government of Canada and MDA Space entered a strategic partnership to design, develop and deliver a multi‑frequency Arctic MILSATCOM capability for the Canadian Armed Forces (Enhanced Satellite Communications Project – Polar, ESCP‑P).
• The ESCP‑P represents a multi‑billion‑dollar Canadian government investment aimed at strengthening Arctic sovereignty, NORAD/NATO commitments, and creating high‑value jobs across Canada’s space and defence supply chain.
• The partnership will be governed by Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, ensuring participation of small‑ and medium‑sized Canadian businesses and driving domestic innovation.

Key Details

• Parties Involved: Telesat Corporation, MDA Space, Government of Canada (Defence Investment Agency).
• Project Scope: Development and delivery of a narrowband + wideband MILSATCOM architecture for the Canadian Armed Forces under ESCP‑P.
• Financial Scale: Multi‑billion‑dollar investment by the Canadian government (exact amount not disclosed).
• Strategic Objectives:
• Enhance secure, resilient communications in the Arctic and northern regions.
• Support Canada’s NORAD and NATO obligations.
• Accelerate deployment timelines via a strategic partner model.
• Industrial Benefits: Application of the ITB Policy to involve Canadian SMEs, create high‑value jobs, and stimulate domestic space‑defence innovation.
• Governance: Execution led by the newly formed Defence Investment Agency (DIA).
• Quotes Highlighting Impact:
• Dan Goldberg (President & CEO, Telesat) emphasized Telesat’s historic support for the Canadian Armed Forces and the partnership’s role in modernising defence communications.
• Ministers Joël Lightbound, David McGuinty, Stephen Fuhr, and Mélanie Joly underscored national security, economic growth, and commitment to domestic industry.

Notable Quotes

• “For decades, Telesat has proudly supported the mission‑critical connectivity needs of the Canadian Armed Forces… we are honoured to be chosen as strategic partners in modernising Canada’s defence capabilities.” – Dan Goldberg, President & CEO, Telesat
• “This investment also reaffirms Canada’s steadfast commitment to our key partners, including NORAD and NATO…” – The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence

All forward‑looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties detailed in the release.