Canada Awards $32M Contract to MDA Space for Ground-Based Space Surveillance

Event summary

  • Canada awarded a $32M contract to MDA Space for ground-based optical capability under the Surveillance of Space 2 project.
  • The contract will establish three remotely operated telescope sites in Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick by June 2028.
  • The project is expected to create or support 80 jobs annually and contribute $9M annually to Canada's GDP over the next six years.
  • The contract includes an additional three years of in-service support, ending in June 2031, with two one-year option periods.

The big picture

This contract is part of Canada's broader effort to modernize its space surveillance capabilities and strengthen its defence industrial base. The investment aligns with the Defence Industrial Strategy, which aims to streamline procurement and support domestic supply chains. The global space economy is projected to reach $2 trillion by 2040, making this a strategic move to position Canadian businesses for long-term growth.

What we're watching

Execution Risk
Whether MDA Space can deliver the three telescope sites on time by June 2028.
Strategic Alignment
How this investment aligns with Canada's broader Defence Industrial Strategy and its role in NORAD.
Economic Impact
The pace at which the project will contribute to Canada's GDP and job creation.