MDA Space Ltd has been awarded two contracts to equip the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN)’s Halifax-class ships with up to six new Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS). Part of the Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (ISTAR UAS) project, these new systems will significantly enhance the RCN’s ability to detect and monitor potential maritime threats, both at home and abroad.
The award includes an acquisition contract valued at approximately $39 million for the initial procurement of two state-of-the-art Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) aircraft with options to procure four additional systems, and an in-service support contract, estimated at $27 million over an initial five-year period, to sustain operations. The in-service support contract includes provisions which enable extensions to the sustainment services for up to 20 years.
By extending the Navy’s situational awareness and operational reach, the advanced technology of the RCN-ISTAR UAS will support Canada’s naval missions and provide the RCN with critical expertise in uncrewed systems and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations. Initial operational ISTAR UAS capability is anticipated in 2028, with full operational capability expected in 2032.
“As a long-time trusted mission partner to Canada, MDA Space is honored to deliver these advanced uncrewed aircraft systems to the Royal Canadian Navy and to provide our sailors with the modern systems they need to meet their operational missions,” said Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space. “The ISTAR UAS project is a clear example of the advanced innovation required to support the modern operational demands of the Canadian Armed Forces, and of deep domestic Canadian industrial capabilities available to help them achieve that mission.”
RCN ISTAR UAS adds to a number of capabilities that MDA Space provides in support of overall Maritime Domain Awareness. Others include Maritime Insights that provides awareness of shipping activity around the world and in critical maritime economic zones for the detection and monitoring of dark vessels. Additionally, the MDA CHORUSTM constellation includes the Vessel Detection Onboard Processor (VDOP) demonstration that will provide near real time Synthetic Aperture Radar processing onboard the satellite and transmit vessel detection events directly from the satellite, significantly reducing the time to process and disseminate satellite maritime domain earth observation information.
