Canada is making significant investments to strengthen national security, protect sovereignty, and foster economic growth, with British Columbia playing a key role in advancing defence innovation. Recently, Canada confirmed it has met the NATO 2% defence expenditure target, marking the largest annual increase in defence spending in decades. PacifiCan is supporting this effort by funding world-class researchers and innovators to develop cutting-edge defence technologies, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and aerospace.
On behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Will Greaves, Member of Parliament for Victoria, announced over $13.8 million in funding for five B.C. projects through the Regional Defence Investment Initiative. These investments aim to strengthen Canada’s defence capabilities by supporting the development and commercialization of AI and aerospace technologies, leveraging B.C.’s leadership in these sectors.
At the University of Victoria (UVic), $4 million will establish a satellite ground station and expand testing facilities, creating shared infrastructure to accelerate innovation in aerospace and digital technologies. An additional $1.4 million will support UVic’s Advanced Control and Intelligent Systems Lab in developing an AI-powered drone system capable of autonomously mapping structures and terrain for civilian and defence applications, including environmental monitoring, disaster response, and surveillance.
B.C.-based companies are also benefiting from the initiative. PacifiCan is investing over $3 million in Arcane Aerospace for next-generation satellite technology, $2.4 million in Atreides to commercialize an AI-enabled platform for unmanned systems, and $2.8 million in OSI Maritime Systems to enhance AI-augmented Collision Avoidance Decision Aid software for vessels in challenging conditions. These projects connect local innovators to global supply chains, build industrial capacity, and advance technologies critical to Canada’s security.
The Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII) is a national, three-year, $379.2 million program delivered through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies, with PacifiCan managing $67.5 million in B.C. from 2025 to 2028. RDII supports dual-use technologies with both military and civilian applications, strengthening research infrastructure, industrial capacity, and supply chain readiness. This initiative is part of Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy, which aims to create high-paying jobs, expand defence exports, increase domestic procurement, and grow the Canadian defence industry.
By funding AI and aerospace innovation in B.C., Canada is fostering homegrown talent, creating sustainable economic opportunities, and ensuring that the country has the technology and expertise needed to maintain long-term security and sovereignty.
