MDA Space partners with government of Canada, Telsat

Executive Summary

• MDA Space Ltd. has entered into a strategic partnership with the Government of Canada and Telesat Corp. to develop and deliver military satellite communications (milsatcom) capabilities.
• The partnership is part of the Enhanced Satellite Communication Project – Polar (ESCP-P), a key procurement led by Canada’s newly formed Defence Investment Agency (DIA).
• The project aims to enhance the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) and Canadian Armed Forces’ (CAF) ability to conduct sovereignty operations in the Arctic, providing secure wideband and narrowband satellite communications.

Key Details

• Partners: MDA Space Ltd., Government of Canada, and Telesat Corp.
• Project Name: Enhanced Satellite Communication Project – Polar (ESCP-P).
• Objective: Deliver secure wideband and narrowband military satellite communications capabilities essential for continental defense and Arctic sovereignty operations.
• Strategic Rationale: Selected based on combined expertise in secure satellite communications and space-based infrastructure; leverages global technology and operational strengths of the domestic space sector.
• Economic Impact: Expected to create high-quality jobs across Canada and unlock a multibillion-dollar investment in Canada's defense sector.
• Policy Framework: Subject to Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy, which ensures the generation of high-value jobs, fosters innovation, and strengthens domestic space and defense sectors.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The ITB policy will engage Canada's space ecosystem, including small and medium-sized businesses, to maximize economic opportunities.

Notable Quotes

• "MDA Space has a long history as a trusted mission partner to the Canadian Armed Forces, delivering the advanced technologies and mission outcomes they need to accomplish their critical mandate... With this partnership, and in close collaboration with the Department of National Defence and Telesat, we are ready to deliver essential Arctic military satellite communications capabilities at the speed of innovation and operational relevance." — Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space