Continental Defence and NORAD Modernization Science and Technology
On February 13, 2025, Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) and the Embassy of Canada to the United States convened Canadian and American leadership and program staff from multiple departments and agencies for in-depth discussions on key defence research and development (R&D) initiatives. These efforts are aligned with the modernization of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and Canada’s broader continental defence R&D for capability advancements.
The event provided an important platform for Canada’s defence and security experts to share how, in an era of rapid technological advancement and increasing geopolitical tensions, both nations can continue working together to enhance North American defence and deterrence.
Canada’s R&D for Defence Capabilities
A central theme of the symposium was sharing the Canadian R&D advancement in support of NORAD and broader defence priorities. Canada is keenly aware that the global security landscape is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of technological threats is crucial.
To safeguard North American security, Canada is investing in R&D for Arctic defence capabilities, including advanced satellite systems for space-based early warning and surveillance. Additionally, research is underway to develop next-generation radar and defencesystems capable of operating effectively in extreme Arctic conditions.
NORAD Modernization: A Strategic Imperative
The Arctic region, including Canada’s northernmost territories and the U.S. state of Alaska, has become a focal point for strategic competition with increasing military activities from both Russia and China in the approaches to the continent. As a result, Canada is working closely with the U.S. to modernize NORAD, the binational military command responsible for aerospace warning, aerospace control and maritime warning for the defence of North America.
NORAD modernization is a critical priority for Canada and was reemphasized in our updated defence policy, Our North Strong and Free. In June 2022, Canada committed nearly $40 billion CAD over 20 years to modernize NORAD capabilities. Of this, $4.2B CAD has been allocated to DRDC’s Defence and Security Science and Technology (S&T) program that will assess emerging threats and co-develop technological solutions with the United States and other allies to enhance the defence of North America.
DRDC’s Cutting-Edge Research & Innovation
The symposium highlighted several transformative S&T initiatives led by DRDC to address evolving defence and security challenges.
Space-Based Surveillance & Resiliency
- NORAD increasingly relies on space-based assets for missile defence, weather forecasting, and secure communications.
- DRDC is exploring the integration of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite networks to enhance Arctic connectivity and resilience against potential adversary attacks.
Integrated Air & Missile Defence
- Potential adversaries are developing hypersonic weapons and maneuverable advanced missile technologies with intercontinental reach.
- DRDC is advancing detection, tracking, and countermeasure capabilities using a layered, system-of-systems approach to provide timely, multi-domain threat response.
Autonomous Systems
- Semi-autonomous systems capable of decision-making with minimal human intervention are revolutionizing military operations.
- DRDC is researching human-machine teaming, semi-autonomous platforms, and real-world experimentation to optimize defence capabilities.
Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS)
- The increasing use of drones by adversaries poses a growing security risk.
- DRDC is spearheading C-UAS technologies to detect, track, and neutralize threats—particularly in Arctic and remote environments, where detection and intervention remain challenging.
Cyber Research
- As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, Canada is prioritizing cyber resilience.
- DRDC is conducting research for protecting critical infrastructure and sensitive information from cyber threats.
Quantum-Enabled Defence Capabilities
- DRDC is exploring quantum technologies for secure communications, enhanced navigation, and advanced sensing capabilities.
Research in the Arctic
- The perception of increased accessibility is driving increased maritime and sub-maritime activity in the Canadian Arctic, including by foreign actors. This presents a real threat to communities in the North.
- DRDC is exploring research in the Arctic to enhance operational capabilities in extreme environments, addressing unique challenges posed by harsh weather and remote locations.