Canada invests $2.92M in Arctic military satellite network by 2035

Canada has awarded a 2.92 million Canadian dollar contract to Telesat and MDA Space for a new military communications network in the Arctic. The project, called the Enhanced Satellite Communications Project - Polar (ESCP-P), aims to improve coverage in remote northern regions. Officials hope the system will strengthen Arctic sovereignty and support NATO and NORAD operations by 2035. The demand for better Arctic communications has grown due to climate change, rising activity in the region, and competition among global powers. Current geostationary satellites provide unreliable coverage, while military systems offer only limited access.

The study will explore different orbital altitudes and frequencies to meet the Canadian Armed Forces’ needs. Telesat plans to launch Lightspeed pathfinder satellites in December 2026, followed by 96 operational satellites in 2027. These will begin offering global broadband, including Arctic coverage. MDA is building 198 low Earth orbit Lightspeed satellites for Telesat, using its programmable Aurora platform. The project is one of the first major contracts managed by Canada’s new Defence Investment Agency (DIA). Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, noted that the investment will boost innovation and create jobs across the country.

The ESCP-P network is expected to deliver secure, reliable communications before the 2035 deadline. It will support military operations while reinforcing Canada’s presence in the Arctic. The project also marks a key step in modernising the country’s defence infrastructure.