The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is building on its over 100-year legacy in Canadian innovation to support Canadian industry in supplying the next-generation of defence solutions
Canada’s prosperity and security are rooted in innovation. Across the country, researchers, entrepreneurs and small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are advancing new science and technology that strengthen our economy and safeguard Canadians in an increasingly complex world. The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) plays a central role in realising this vision. By leveraging its research expertise, national network, and partnerships with industry, academia and government, the NRC accelerates innovation in areas vital to Canada’s defence and security.
Accelerating defence and aerospace innovation in Canada
For more than a century, the NRC has been at the forefront of Canadian innovation in defence and aerospace. From pioneering the crash position indicator – the precursor to today’s flight recorder – to developing the anti-gravity suit and testing the Avro Arrow, our researchers have consistently advanced technologies that strengthen Canada’s defence capabilities. Today, supported by over C$900m in new Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS) investments, the NRC is expanding this legacy to deliver the next generation of defence solutions.
One example is the new Drone Innovation Hub to advance research, development, and the commercialisation of drone technologies for Canada’s defence, security, and dual‑use sectors. The hub also creates new testing opportunities for businesses – from simulations to live flight trials – in collaboration with the Department of National Defence (DND) and Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC).
The NRC has also acquired a Canadian-built Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft, which will serve as a dedicated airborne defence research platform. This adaptable aircraft, with state-of-the-art technologies, will enable Canadian businesses to develop, test, and evaluate new defence solutions securely and efficiently. By doing so, Canada reduces its dependency on foreign platforms, accelerates commercialisation, and increases Canadian global competitiveness.
At the same time, the NRC is strengthening Canada’s industrial base through the Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) initiative, delivered by the NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). This initiative provides funding and advisory services to SMEs developing defence and dual-use technologies, helping Canadian innovators turn ideas into deployable solutions that fuel both economic growth and national security.
The NRC is also reinforcing Canada’s leadership in emerging fields such as quantum technology and biotechnology. Investments in quantum sensing, quantum internetworking and quantum-safe communications are laying the groundwork for future defence and security systems. Through the Biomedical Countermeasures Initiative, NRC researchers are strengthening Canada’s readiness to respond to biological threats and pandemics that could affect national health security.
Research and collaboration to secure Canada’s future
Through its Challenge programs and collaborations with the DND, the NRC has delivered more than 975 joint projects since 2021, advancing technologies in aerospace, sensors, marine systems, and biosecurity. This enduring partnership – the NRC’s largest – demonstrates how government research collaboration can drive innovation into operational advantage for the Canadian Armed Forces.
The NRC’s work under the DIS reflects a whole of government approach aligning long-term research investments with Canada’s defence priorities. Through research, collaboration, and innovation, the NRC is helping Canada to remain a technological leader, protect its sovereignty, meet future challenges, and build lasting economic strength.
In an era defined by rapid disruption and global uncertainty, investments in research and innovation are not optional – they are essential. By aligning science, industry and national priorities, the NRC is helping Canada secure its future: stronger, safer, and more resilient.
Please note, this article will also appear in the 26th edition of our quarterly publication.
