Telesat Partners with Canadian Government and MDA Space to Deliver Advanced Military Satellite Communications

Telesat (Nasdaq and TSX: TSAT), a global leader in satellite operations, has announced a strategic partnership with the Government of Canada and MDA Space to develop a next-generation military satellite communications (MILSATCOM) solution. This collaboration aims to enhance Canada’s Arctic sovereignty and bolster its commitments to NORAD and NATO through the Enhanced Satellite Communications Project – Polar (ESCP-P).

A Cutting-Edge Solution for Arctic Security

Leveraging over 55 years of satellite engineering expertise, Telesat will play a pivotal role in delivering a state-of-the-art MILSATCOM architecture. The ESCP-P project will provide the Canadian Armed Forces with a secure, multi-frequency satellite communications capability, ensuring reliable connectivity in the Arctic and other remote regions. This advanced system will support Canada’s defence objectives, including safeguarding airspace, responding to emerging threats, and supporting northern communities.

The project is being spearheaded by the newly established Defence Investment Agency (DIA), which is utilizing a strategic partner model to accelerate the design, development, and deployment of this critical infrastructure. This approach combines government and industry expertise to deliver advanced defence programs on an expedited timeline.

Economic and Technological Benefits for Canada

The ESCP-P initiative represents a multi-billion-dollar investment by the Canadian government, acting as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation within the country’s space and defence sectors. The project will adhere to Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, ensuring that it drives innovation, strengthens domestic industries, and creates high-value jobs for Canadians. By engaging stakeholders across the space sector, including small and medium-sized enterprises, the partnership will foster collaboration and amplify economic benefits nationwide.

Leadership Perspectives

Dan Goldberg, President and CEO of Telesat, expressed pride in the company’s role in modernizing Canada’s defence capabilities. “We commend the government’s forward-thinking approach to defence procurement—one that harnesses industry expertise, innovation, and investment to accelerate deployment of a secure, multi-frequency architecture that strengthens Arctic security and safeguards Canadian sovereignty,” Goldberg stated.

The Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, highlighted the dual benefits of the project: “Through this strategic investment in military satellite communications, we are not only strengthening the Canadian Armed Forces’ ability to maintain secure, reliable communications in remote regions but also supporting innovation and job creation across Canada.”

The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, emphasized the importance of the ESCP-P project in advancing Canada’s defence and sovereignty. “This investment reaffirms Canada’s steadfast commitment to our key partners, including NORAD and NATO, and underscores our determination to meet our sovereign defence objectives as outlined in Canada’s defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free.”

A Collaborative Effort for National Security

The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, praised the partnership for its role in strengthening Arctic security and creating high-quality jobs. “In collaboration with Canadian industry partners Telesat and MDA Space, the project will deliver robust and secure military satellite communications capabilities that ensure our forces remain connected across vast and remote regions,” Fuhr noted.

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry, highlighted the project’s impact on Canada’s space and defence sectors. “Through the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, this project will create high-value jobs, drive targeted investments, and strengthen innovation across Canada’s space and defence sectors, including small and medium-sized businesses,” she said.

About Telesat

Telesat is one of the world’s largest and most innovative satellite operators, renowned for its engineering excellence and customer service. The company’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, Telesat Lightspeed, is designed to deliver high-capacity, secure, and resilient connectivity with fiber-like speeds. Telesat continues to redefine global satellite communications, addressing the most complex connectivity challenges for telecom, government, maritime, and aeronautical customers.

For more information about Telesat and its initiatives, visit their website at www.telesat.com .