Canada and Ukraine solidified their partnership by signing a long-term strategic and political agreement aimed at bolstering their defense capabilities through the production of millions of drones. The agreement spans over 100 years and encompasses various sectors such as defense, security, trade, investment, energy, and critical minerals. Specific details and the implementation of this partnership will be finalized in the upcoming months.
The collaboration between the two nations commenced with the signing of contracts related to drone production and investments in the defense industry. Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the critical juncture in Ukraine’s warfare, emphasizing the penetration of uncrewed systems deep into Russian territory. He expressed concern over the devastating impact of Russia’s intensified missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, particularly on Kyiv, which has been facing continuous bombardment.
Carney reassured Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasizing the shared values of freedom, democracy, and sovereignty. Canada plans to establish a drone marketplace, facilitating quick procurement of drones by military units from various companies to enhance industrial capacity for mass drone production within the next two years. Currently, the Canadian military possesses only 2,000 drones across different types.
Contracts amounting to nearly $50 million have been awarded to increase the deployment of drones by the Canadian Armed Forces by tenfold. The initial procurement includes intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance drones, as well as uncrewed ground vehicles, involving firms from New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. Canada and Ukraine intend to collaborate with their respective industries to manufacture drones, aiming to leverage Ukraine’s expertise in battle-tested drone technology.
Furthermore, General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada and the Ukrainian company Green Tech Harvest will collaborate on drone development and production, building upon similar partnerships. The countries are also planning joint production of uncrewed systems, counter-drone technologies, munitions, and artificial intelligence technology.
The rapid evolution of drone technology poses a challenge for Canada, requiring constant adaptation to match Ukraine’s advancements. Lt.-Gen. Darcy Molstad acknowledged Ukraine’s leadership in drone technology and highlighted the importance of learning operational lessons from them. To enhance Ukraine’s defense and long-term security, Canada announced investments totaling $350 million in air defense interceptors and significant financial support for energy security and veteran rehabilitation programs in Ukraine.
