Telesat commends the Government of Canada for the release of Strong, Secure, Engaged – Canada’s Defence Policy and the significant investments it outlines in its personnel and across a full spectrum of military capabilities and capacities, including placing a heightened priority on space and satellite communications.

Telesat is particularly pleased to see the Government’s commitment to address current capability gaps in satellite communication requirements, including the need to acquire space-based systems that will enhance and improve tactical narrow- and wide-band communications globally and throughout the Arctic, as well as new investments in remotely-piloted systems across all military environments. These critical capabilities will enhance Canadian sovereignty and national security and offer compelling opportunities for Canadian industry to provide mutually beneficial collaboration and services to the Canadian Armed Forces.

“Telesat and other Canadian companies stand ready to continue to work, and foster productive partnerships, with the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces to deliver world class, ‘Made in Canada’ solutions that meet or exceed Canada’s requirements,” said Dan Goldberg, President and CEO of Telesat. “The Canadian space sector plays a vital role in the economy of Canada and has a long and proud tradition of supporting key Government initiatives and policy objectives,” said Mr. Goldberg. “Telesat looks forward to implementing the defence policy with the Government of Canada in a manner that creates highly-qualified, well-paying jobs, stimulates innovation, contributes to economic growth and fosters important export opportunities.”

With the announcement by the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, of new investments in space and other capabilities across the military spectrum, underpinned by a long-term, 20-year stable funding commitment, the Government is providing an unprecedented opportunity for the Canadian defence industry, including the space sector, to effectively support the military in all of its undertakings.

Telesat also commends the Government on highlighting and emphasizing the vital need for a greater engagement with Canada’s defence industry from the earliest stages of research and development through to commercialization, in order to develop and deliver the best capabilities available for Canada’s military with the latest Canadian knowledge, innovation and expertise.