Ontario-based defense contractor MDA Space has secured contracts worth 66 million Canadian dollars ($48 million) to deliver unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for the Royal Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class guided missile frigates.
The first agreement, valued at 39 million Canadian dollars ($28.3 million), covers the purchase of two drones, with an option for up to four additional units.
A second deal, worth 27 million Canadian dollars ($19.6 million), will provide long-term in-service support and maintenance, potentially lasting up to two decades.
Canada’s Department of Defence said the procurement is aimed at enhancing situational awareness and reducing operational risks for Halifax-class ships through integration with ISTAR (intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance) drones.
The ISTAR requirement calls for shipborne, vertical takeoff and landing systems that can operate alongside maritime helicopters, function in all weather conditions, and reach at least 50 nautical miles (58 mi/93 km) from the vessel.
Each drone will be equipped with a modular maritime sensor package, including an EO/IR camera, radar, Automatic Identification System, and Identification Friend or Foe transponder.
