Canada announces $900 million investment in defence innovation and drone technology

March 9, 2026

RED FM News Desk

The federal government has announced a major investment aimed at strengthening Canada’s domestic defence industry and boosting innovation in aerospace and drone technology.

Melanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Industry, revealed on Monday that more than $900 million will be invested in defence innovation across the country. The announcement was made in Ottawa at the National Research Council Canada.

Joly was joined by David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, and Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement.

The funding forms part of the federal government’s broader defence industrial strategy introduced earlier this year. The strategy commits $6.6 billion over the next five years to strengthen Canada’s defence manufacturing sector, increase domestic production, and expand international defence exports. Officials say the initiative could help create up to 125,000 jobs over the next decade.

A significant portion of the investment will focus on expanding Canada’s capabilities in drone and aerospace technologies. The funds will be distributed through the National Research Council to support research, development, and domestic manufacturing.