<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[True North Strategic Review: True North Strategic News]]></title><description><![CDATA[Your source for clear, reliable coverage of Canada’s defense, security, and strategic sectors. True North Strategic News delivers timely updates, official statements, and in-depth reporting on the developments shaping Canada’s national interests—from industry movements and product updates to policy shifts and Operations.

Built for professionals, analysts, and readers who want credible information and context, this section keeps you informed on what’s happening across Canada’s defense and strategic landscape.]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/s/true-north-strategic-news</link><image><url>https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!jf8F!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd4eb8f05-9a5a-473c-aa1e-d666c8cfd217_500x500.png</url><title>True North Strategic Review: True North Strategic News</title><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/s/true-north-strategic-news</link></image><generator>Substack</generator><lastBuildDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:52:58 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><copyright><![CDATA[Noah]]></copyright><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><webMaster><![CDATA[truenorthstrategicreview@substack.com]]></webMaster><itunes:owner><itunes:email><![CDATA[truenorthstrategicreview@substack.com]]></itunes:email><itunes:name><![CDATA[Noah]]></itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author><![CDATA[Noah]]></itunes:author><googleplay:owner><![CDATA[truenorthstrategicreview@substack.com]]></googleplay:owner><googleplay:email><![CDATA[truenorthstrategicreview@substack.com]]></googleplay:email><googleplay:author><![CDATA[Noah]]></googleplay:author><itunes:block><![CDATA[Yes]]></itunes:block><item><title><![CDATA[Manitoba Government to Support Major Expansion at 17 Wing Winnipeg]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/manitoba-government-to-support-major</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/manitoba-government-to-support-major</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:28:22 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!T1-A!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd88c930c-d75d-4469-beae-7c1fea448f5b_214x41.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d88c930c-d75d-4469-beae-7c1fea448f5b_214x41.png&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d88c930c-d75d-4469-beae-7c1fea448f5b_214x41.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p>The Manitoba government is supporting a significant expansion at 17 Wing Winnipeg that will bolster national defence priorities, strengthen strategic infrastructure and bring up to 1,400 jobs to Winnipeg, Premier Wab Kinew announced today.</p><p><em>&#8220;The exciting expansion at 17 Wing Winnipeg is exactly the kind of project we want to prioritize when connecting new demand to Manitoba&#8217;s hydro grid,&#8221; </em>said Kinew. <em>&#8220;Saying &#8216;no&#8217; to AI hyperscale data centres allows us to say &#8216;yes&#8217; to nation-building projects like 17 Wing, Winnipeg&#8217;s air force base. We thank our federal partners for this investment.&#8221;</em></p><p>The expansion project will receive a high priority designation under Manitoba&#8217;s modernized hydro regulations, meaning it will be prioritized for power, the premier noted. The project will enable critical upgrades and new developments at the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) base Winnipeg to support future training requirements, defence operational infrastructure and base electrification. The improvements will also enable future expansion opportunities, the premier added.</p><p>Once fully operational, the expansion, supported by additional electrical capacity, is expected to enable further investment and support up to 1,400 new jobs, with planning already underway.</p><p>17 Wing Winnipeg is a critical, continuously operating military installation with essential functions including airfield operations, communications, security and emergency response. The site&#8217;s energy demand is driven by heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, lighting and mission-critical operations.</p><p>The expansion includes the design and construction of a new Department of National Defence-owned substation, which will provide reliable electrical capacity to support long-term CAF modernization initiatives, the premier noted, adding that modernization includes electrification of the base&#8217;s light-duty vehicle fleet, in line with federal policy objectives.</p><p>This project underscores Manitoba&#8217;s role in Canada&#8217;s defence network, while also reinforcing the Manitoba government&#8217;s commitment to strategic infrastructure, clean energy use and economic growth, the premier noted. </p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Inuit Statement on Partnership in Arctic Sovereignty, Defence and Security]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/inuit-statement-on-partnership-in</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/inuit-statement-on-partnership-in</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:41:54 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!bgYO!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F697c7e8f-4014-4b30-a0d2-ea8f31258cc8_520x134.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/697c7e8f-4014-4b30-a0d2-ea8f31258cc8_520x134.png&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/697c7e8f-4014-4b30-a0d2-ea8f31258cc8_520x134.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>June 19, 2026 &#8211; Ottawa, Ontario</strong></p><p>The Inuit homeland, Inuit Nunangat, encompasses 40 percent of Canada&#8217;s land area, most of the country&#8217;s coastline and its entire Arctic territory. Our people make up 82 percent of the region&#8217;s population. Through our modern treaties with the Crown and way of life based on harvesting wildlife, we own, use and co-manage all of it.</p><p>Inuit are the foremost experts on the Arctic, and our continued use and occupancy of the region is integral to Canada&#8217;s status as both an economic and Arctic power.</p><p>Canada would not be an Arctic power without Inuit, our land, and the contributions our people make every day to occupying, monitoring and safeguarding a region larger than British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario combined.</p><p>The Arctic is a region with great potential for economic growth, and our lands and waters hold significant potential for strengthening Canada&#8217;s economy and strategic autonomy.</p><p>We are proud Canadians who are aware of the rapidly changing geopolitical environment but refuse to be marginalized into the role of spectators as our homeland is re-militarized.</p><p>Canada must respect Inuit. Respect and support for Inuit rights, governance and self-determination must form the foundation of Canada&#8217;s sovereignty and security policy in Inuit Nunangat.</p><p>We firmly reject outdated, colonial approaches to Arctic policy that repeat Canada&#8217;s past mistakes of marginalizing our people, communities and governance structures from decision-making about matters that will affect our land, people and way of life for generations to come.</p><p>We call on the federal government to partner with Inuit in advancing a more ambitious vision for its Arctic territory by prioritizing improved coordination with Inuit rights holders in decision-making, and the investments in the infrastructure and services needed to create prosperity and bring the entirety of Inuit Nunangat into the rest of the country.</p><p>Canada can only achieve this objective by partnering with the four rights-holding Inuit Treaty Organizations whose members include all Inuit.</p><p>We must be engaged in Arctic security planning to ensure that any action being contemplated is informed by community realities. Potential impacts on our communities must be understood and managed appropriately, and our people must be able to derive practical benefits from investments.</p><p>We are united in our commitment to our people and homeland. Inuit are Canada&#8217;s Arctic strength. But Canada&#8217;s influence in the region is only as strong as its relationship with Inuit. As other nations seek greater influence in the region, they are taking steps to partner with our people and others to secure their respective Arctic futures and Canada must do the same.</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[CCC to Accelerate Canadian Defence Exports to Guatemala]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/ccc-to-accelerate-canadian-defence</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/ccc-to-accelerate-canadian-defence</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 21:36:24 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!5yI9!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2f6a8a20-f041-4987-850a-c498353b55e6_960x641.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2f6a8a20-f041-4987-850a-c498353b55e6_960x641.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2f6a8a20-f041-4987-850a-c498353b55e6_960x641.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>Ottawa, CANADA &#8211; </strong>CCC is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of National Defence of the Republic of Guatemala. The agreement establishes a government-to-government (G2G) framework to support Guatemala&#8217;s expedited procurement of Canadian defence and security solutions.</p><p>Through its G2G model, CCC enables Canadian defence and security industries to meet Guatemala&#8217;s requirements while reducing risk and simplifying procurement. G2G contracts are signed in the name of the Government of Canada, providing Guatemala with fast, reliable access to qualified Canadian suppliers. Each contract includes an assurance of contract performance backed by the Canadian government, and aligns with Canada&#8217;s rigorous integrity and compliance standards.</p><p>Guatemala&#8217;s Ministry of National Defence is seeking to strengthen cooperation across key domains where Canada&#8217;s defence industry is well positioned to contribute. Canadian solutions align with Guatemala&#8217;s priorities in air and land mobility, surveillance, training, cyber, and logistics. Together, they deliver interoperable, resilient, and cost-effective capabilities for humanitarian, disaster response, and security operations.</p><p>This agreement builds on CCC&#8217;s growing defence export relationship with Guatemala, including a recent contract to supply a Canadian-built Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft. The aircraft is supporting medical evacuation, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quotes</h4><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>&#8220;This agreement reinforces Canada&#8217;s position as a trusted global partner and opens the door for our defence industry to deliver high-quality capabilities to Guatemala, strengthening our industrial base and deepening long-term strategic ties.&#8221;</em></p><p><em>Hon. Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade.</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>&#8220;This MoU reinforces Canada&#8217;s role as a trusted partner for Guatemala and builds on CCC&#8217;s proven track record of delivering Canadian defence and security solutions through G2G contracts. It strengthens Guatemala&#8217;s defence capabilities while advancing long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation between our two countries.&#8221; </em></p><p><em>Bobby Kwon, President and CEO of CCC.</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>&#8220;This agreement reflects the strong and growing partnership between Canada and Guatemala. By enabling closer government-to-government collaboration, it will facilitate access to reliable Canadian expertise and solutions that support Guatemala&#8217;s defence priorities and broader security objectives.&#8221;</em></p><p><em>H.E. Olivier Jacques, Canada&#8217;s Ambassador to Guatemala.</em></p></div><p> </p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">About CCC</h4><p>CCC is Canada&#8217;s government-to-government (G2G) contracting agency. We help build successful commercial relationships between Canadian businesses and governments around the world through our G2G contracting approach. We are also the U.S. Department of War designated contracting authority for procurements from Canada. To learn more about how we have facilitated billions in trade between Canadian businesses and governments around the world, visit ccc.ca.</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Canadian Armed Forces participates in Exercise VALIANT SHIELD 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/canadian-armed-forces-participates</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/canadian-armed-forces-participates</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 14:25:56 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!DmFo!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F37b6dd57-44c8-493a-9355-b8746b7bfa2e_453x73.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/37b6dd57-44c8-493a-9355-b8746b7bfa2e_453x73.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/37b6dd57-44c8-493a-9355-b8746b7bfa2e_453x73.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>June 22, 2026 &#8211; Ottawa, Ontario &#8211; National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces</strong></p><p>The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) will participate in Exercise VALIANT SHIELD 2026, a United States-led biennial field exercise taking place in and around Hawaii and Guam from June 22 to July 5, 2026.</p><p>During this exercise, His Majesty&#8217;s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Charlottetown will conduct anti-submarine warfare training, strengthening its ability to operate seamlessly with allies and partners. Land-based personnel in Guam, Hawaii, and Japan will enhance proficiency to detect, track, and engage threats across sea, air, land, and cyberspace, while contributing to planning and coordination efforts that strengthen interoperability and partnerships.</p><p>Complementing these operational activities, members from 2 Wing Bagotville will participate in multinational Airfield Damage Repair training in Guam. This training will enhance            and validate their ability to rapidly assess damage and restore critical airfield infrastructure, enabling the timely resumption of air operations in expeditionary and contingency environments. This training strengthens operational resilience, sustainment of airpower, and interoperability with allied and partner forces.</p><p>Exercise VALIANT SHIELD 2026 will bring together forces from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States, demonstrating the strength of integrated multinational operations across the Indo-Pacific.</p><p>CAF participation in this exercise is part of Operation HORIZON, Canada&#8217;s contribution to promoting peace and stability in the Indo&#8209;Pacific. As global geopolitical competition and military activity increase, close coordination with allies and partners remains essential. A stable region is critical to protecting global trade routes, supporting economic security, and advancing Canada&#8217;s long&#8209;term strategic interests. This exercise strengthens long&#8209;standing partnerships with like-minded nations, enhances combined military capability, and reinforces a shared commitment to regional security.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quotes</h4><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;Participating in Exercise VALIANT SHIELD provides an important opportunity for His Majesty&#8217;s Canadian Ship Charlottetown to strengthen interoperability and operate alongside our allies and partners in a complex, multi-domain environment. I&#8217;m immensely proud of the crew and their work so far throughout our deployment on Operation HORIZON, they&#8217;ve demonstrated professionalism, skill, and teamwork that will be required to contribute to this multinational exercise.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Commander Jonathan Maurice, Commanding Officer HMCS Charlottetown</em></p></div><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quick Facts</h4><ul><li><p>Exercise VALIANT SHIELD 2026 marks the 11th iteration of the series. The 2026 iteration marks the second time the CAF are participating. The integration of CAF members in various roles will enhance interoperability with allies and partners. </p><p></p></li><li><p>HMCS Charlottetown is a Halifax&#8209;class frigate with a crew of approximately 240, which includes Royal Canadian Navy sailors as well as Royal Canadian Air Force aviators who operate and support the ship&#8217;s CH&#8209;148 Cyclone maritime helicopter.</p></li></ul>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Canada advances Arctic defence on Over-the-Horizon Radar capability through partnership with Australia]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release + Long Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/canada-advances-arctic-defence-on</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/canada-advances-arctic-defence-on</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 03:13:50 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Fea4!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fd29559cf-71f2-400a-a88c-c2d3ff67abd0_1200x628.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d29559cf-71f2-400a-a88c-c2d3ff67abd0_1200x628.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d29559cf-71f2-400a-a88c-c2d3ff67abd0_1200x628.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>June 22, 2026 - Canberra, Australia</strong>                       </p><p>The Government of Canada is protecting Canadians and upholding sovereignty through investments in Arctic defence. In response to an increasingly complex global environment, the government is strengthening the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) with advanced capabilities to detect threats earlier. These modern surveillance systems will enhance domain awareness and support CAF members as they defend Canada and North America.</p><p>Today, the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), announced that Canada has entered into formal arrangements with Australia and its industry partner, BAE Systems Australia, to acquire an Over-the-Horizon Radar (OTHR) capability in support of Canada&#8217;s Arctic Over-the-Horizon Radar (A-OTHR) program.</p><p>To mark this historic occasion, Secretary of State Fuhr signed a Government-to-Government Acquisition Arrangement with the Honourable Richard Marles, Australia&#8217;s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, at an official ceremony in Canberra, Australia.</p><p>In addition to this arrangement, which establishes the framework for Canada&#8217;s procurement of Australia&#8217;s proven OTHR technology, the Government of Canada also signed:</p><ul><li><p>an OTHR Rights Agreement with Australia and BAE Systems Australia</p><p></p></li><li><p>a comprehensive Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) agreement with BAE Systems Australia</p></li></ul><p></p><p>The signing of this agreement between governments marks the transition of the A-OTHR program into the delivery phase. BAE Systems Australia is scheduled to begin work on July 1, 2026, supporting Canada&#8217;s commitment to achieving initial operational capability by December 2029. Canada is committed to spending $2.5 billion with Australia to procure this capability.</p><p>Through the Defence Investment Agency, Canada is accelerating collaboration with trusted allies and partners, enhancing interoperability, and reinforcing its role as a reliable contributor to continental and global defence. These agreements mark the transition of the A-OTHR program into the delivery phase. They also deepen Canada&#8211;Australia defence cooperation and defence industrial collaboration, strengthen collective security in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions, and support the co-development of long-range surveillance technologies.</p><p>Canada&#8217;s partnership with Australia on A-OTHR reflects a shared commitment to advancing cutting-edge defence technologies and strengthening continental security through NORAD. By leveraging Australia&#8217;s established expertise in OTHR, Canada will accelerate the development of a capability that supports early warning, informed decision-making and Arctic sovereignty, while building the domestic expertise needed to operate, sustain and evolve the system over time.</p><p>As part of the project, BAE Systems Australia, will work with Canadian companies to build expertise on the radar system in Canada and strengthen the country&#8217;s defence industrial base. This approach ensures that international partnerships translate into concrete economic and technological benefits for Canadian workers and businesses, in line with Canada&#8217;s ITB Policy and the Defence Industrial Strategy.</p><p>The A-OTHR project is estimated to contribute close to $290 million annually to Canada&#8217;s gross domestic product and support approximately 2,270 jobs annually in the Canadian economy during the 2026 to 2033 period.</p><p>The A-OTHR program will deliver a modern, long-range surveillance capability designed to detect and track airborne and maritime threats approaching Canada&#8217;s northern and Arctic regions. The system will significantly enhance Canada&#8217;s domain awareness and enable earlier decision-making in the defence of Canadian and North American airspace. </p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quotes</h4><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;Canada is reinforcing Arctic security through the Arctic Over-the-Horizon Radar project. This project is part of a broader effort to build an integrated Arctic surveillance and communications network that will strengthen Canada&#8217;s ability to monitor, understand and respond to activity in the Arctic. We are working with trusted partners to modernize our continental defences while ensuring meaningful industrial and technological benefits for Canadians. This agreement with Australia reflects the partnership approach at the core of Canada&#8217;s Defence Industrial Strategy and marks an important milestone for the Defence Investment Agency as it continues to accelerate the delivery of critical capabilities to the Canadian Armed Forces.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Honourable Stephen Fuhr</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;Today&#8217;s announcement marks a significant step forward in strengthening Canada&#8217;s security and defending our sovereignty. Through this partnership with Australia to deliver advanced radar capabilities, we are enhancing the Canadian Armed Forces&#8217; ability to detect, deter, and respond to emerging threats with greater speed, reach, and precision. This investment reinforces our commitment to Arctic sovereignty, strengthens continental defence through NORAD, and ensures Canada remains prepared to meet evolving security challenges and protect our national interests at home and abroad.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Honourable David J. McGuinty</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Minister of National Defence</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;In an increasingly dangerous and divided world, the Government of Canada is investing in modern surveillance systems to detect threats earlier, support Canadian Armed Forces members in protecting Canada and our allies, and strengthen Canada&#8217;s defence industrial base. By applying Canada&#8217;s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy to the Arctic-Over-the-Horizon Radar project, we are ensuring this investment helps build domestic expertise, create well-paying jobs and position Canada to scale up its own advanced radar capabilities. This partnership between Canada and Australia will strengthen our national security and drive economic growth here at home.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Honourable M&#233;lanie Joly</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;This is the biggest defence export agreement in Australia&#8217;s history, which reflects our close and long-standing friendship with Canada. In an increasingly complex strategic environment, Australia and Canada are committed to working together to grow our defence relationship and this initiative is a clear demonstration of that enduring partnership in action. This arrangement demonstrates Australia&#8217;s ability to export advanced, high-technology defence systems while safeguarding our national security, and enabling trusted partners to benefit from Australian innovation.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Honourable Richard Marles</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Australia&#8217;s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;The Jindalee Operational Radar Network is a great Aussie success story &#8211; world-leading technology that has led to the biggest defence export agreement in Australia&#8217;s history. The arrangement represents a powerful example of how defence exports support economic growth, build high-technology capability, and strengthen national resilience. BAE Systems Australia, as the key industry partner, plays a central role in reinforcing Australia&#8217;s position as a global leader in OTHR technology. Today&#8217;s agreement directly supports the ongoing evolution and resilience of the Jindalee Operational Radar Network.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Honourable Pat Conroy</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Australia&#8217;s Minister for Defence Industry and Pacific Island Affairs</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;Canada is investing in innovative defence technologies that will bolster the Canadian economy and significantly enhance security for our country, including our northern and Arctic regions. Today&#8217;s announcement reinforces Canada&#8217;s commitment to strengthening relationships with trusted allies like  Australia and represents a milestone in the advancement of Canada&#8217;s Arctic defence and NORAD modernization. The A-OTHR project aligns with Canada&#8217;s Defence Industrial Strategy and demonstrates the vital importance of the Defence Investment Agency.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Doug Guzman</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Chief Executive Officer, Defence Investment Agency</em></p></div><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quick facts</h4><ul><li><p>On March 18, 2025, the Prime Minister announced Canada&#8217;s plan to invest more than $6 billion in the A-OTHR program.</p><p></p></li><li><p>The Defence Investment Agency supports the A&#8209;OTHR project by advancing procurement and enabling timely contracting for this critical capability.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Unlike conventional radar systems, OTHR technology can detect objects at far greater ranges by refracting radar signals through the ionosphere, allowing the system to see beyond the curvature of the Earth. This makes it a critical capability for monitoring Canada&#8217;s vast northern approaches and providing earlier warning of potential threats</p><p></p></li><li><p>The project also supports NORAD modernization efforts and represents the first time Canada is leading a major capability development within the binational command.</p><p></p></li><li><p>This initiative reflects the PARTNER component of Canada&#8217;s Defence Industrial Strategy, whereby Canada collaborates with trusted allies and partners and leading global firms when domestic capacity is limited or when partnerships can accelerate capability delivery. Through this approach, Canada gains access to proven technologies while ensuring that investments generate lasting benefits for Canadians, including knowledge transfer, innovation and the growth of Canada&#8217;s defence industrial base.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Canada&#8217;s ITB Policy applies to the A-OTHR project to maximize economic benefits in Canada, strengthen domestic sovereign capabilities, and support participation across the Canadian defence sector supply chain, including small and medium-sized business. </p></li></ul><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: An important milestone for the Arctic Over-the-Horizon System Project. While BAE Australia was downselected as the preferred supplier last year, and we have begun the work of setting the stage for A-OTHR, an actual contract for the procurement of the Jindalee System has been in negotiations. (also missed by many is the disclosure that we are looking at the Variant 6 version coming online, for the nerds who care)</strong></p><p><strong>This future system will form the inner layer of Canada&#8217;s future Long Range Sense-Strike Complex (im stealing that from a friend), the layered network of Canada&#8217;s Sensor network that includes things like A-OTHR, <a href="https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/lets-talk-briefly-about-the-northwatch">the Northwatch System we discussed two weeks ago</a>, SPY/7, AEWC, and much more we won't fully list out here. The technical name is the Northern Approaches Initative (as many point out), but I don't like that name.</strong></p><p><strong>In this sense, AOTH-R falls under the inner layer of that network, covering the area from the CAN-US Border up to the Northwatch Ground-Based Radar System, formerly the Polar Over-the-Horizon Radar. For more practical terms, it will cover the Central and Eastern portions of the country, up towards the area of the Davis Strait and Southern Tip of Greenland. Here is a rough map.</strong></p><p></p><div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d931e8a6-6a27-4734-8136-e4b0d9748d85_672x469.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a19fb7af-f6c1-466c-bbb9-b090e4062605_555x365.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d4f227b5-bf59-47ca-b906-f65a46ec1099_1456x720.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>This is Stage 1 of the project, I should note. It is not the entire Arctic Over-the-Horizon capability. The first two radar sites will be located in Ontario, more specifically on a 163-hectare property the City of Kawartha Lakes, which will act as the permanent transmit site and a 288-hectare property in Clearview Township that will act as a preliminary receive site.</strong></p><p><strong>In total though, the future A-OTHR will comprise upwards of 1500 hectares located south of the 46th parallel. <a href="https://canada.constructconnect.com/dcn/news/infrastructure/2026/03/aecon-pomerleau-stantec-partnership-to-deliver-arctic-over-the-horizon-radar-project">A team of Aecon, Pomerleau, and Stantec will deliver the Stage 1 infrastructure.</a> Future stages are still in the works.</strong></p><p></p><div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/4cc29717-3970-4f34-9e26-5f74b7640be9_500x470.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/5eb6cada-92cc-49bf-9c0d-183ae678cd4f_500x470.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;A look at JORN Transmitter and Receiver for reference&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/fc0a0c9d-c766-46b5-9b3b-a527e79e1066_1456x720.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>Timeline for the A-OTHR is again fairly ambitious for such a project. The hope is to have a Minimum Viable Capability by 2029/2030, though FOC fluctuates around from the 2035/2036 to 2042/2043 range.</strong></p><p><strong>The 6.5 Billion dollar project was the first big win of the Carney government, and obviously a win they have paraded around quite a bit the last year, so it is no doubt they're taking this one with care. This is also one of the major projects highlighted as part of Canada&#8217;s defence diversification strategy.</strong></p><p><strong>In that sense, it is very important that A-OTHR goes off without a hitch, and the timelines and rush put on it are testament to that desire to quickly partner on capabilities and work towards promoting a Partner model of procurement. See also Globaleye here for another projwct pushed through quick.</strong></p><p><strong>In this case though JORN existed before Carney. They might have pushed it through, and kept momentum going on it, but it was an option before Carney despite what people say. In a different timeline, we would also be talking about a potential American version coming together in tandem, but not anymore.</strong></p><p><strong>The decision though wasn't without controversy. There were many upset by the decision to push through JORN, especially as Canadian companies like D-TA have been building up the credible lost of active systems to demonstrate that they could provide such a system. </strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://militaryembedded.com/radar-ew/signal-processing/over-the-horizon-radar-othr-contracts-won-by-d-ta-systems">They've worked with Raytheon Canada delivering both a 1024-channel OTHR receiver and a 256-channel OTHR transmitter for their own POTHR work. </a>They've delivered a 256-channel OTHR receiver for the NCR, and <a href="https://canadiandefencereview.com/atco-frontec-idc-awarded-a-two-year-48-4m-contract-for-a-new-polar-over-the-horizon-radar-pothr-system/">They've been contracted to supply the joint venture of  ATCO Frontec and Inuvialuit Development Corporation (IDC) on their P-OTHR contract</a>.</strong></p><p><strong>Needless to say there was a bit of hurt feelings and some tension. The D-TA guys are always friendly to me, and they were open aboit their disappointment in feeling excluded. This is policy though. Where capabilities and projects can be leveraged to secure strategic investment, and build strategic partnerships, the Federal Government will take a priority. </strong></p><p><strong>Build-Partner-Buy is the framework, but while Buy sits as the lowest option that doesn't mean Partner is necessarily the middle. Instead, the value and benefits on Building or Partnering on projects is measured in tandem with Long-Term benefits and Goals.</strong></p><p><strong>In simple terms, depends on what they feel gets the most benefit, and for Canadian Industry that does create an enviornment where partnering abroad remains a constantly looming option that could quickly take over procurements. See again Globaleye, which while unsurprising in the grand scheme was still pushed ahead to everyones surprise.</strong></p><p><strong>As I have said previously, my dog in that fight is very situational, and I do believe there is a healthy balance that does exist, but it isnt black and white and isnt simple. I do not ency those on this file who have decision authority. Either way, JORN is considered world-class. I have no doubts it will do a great job and provide a massive increase in Canada&#8217;s OTHR sense capabilities.</strong></p><p><strong>But I would be amiss if I did not mention the elephant in the room, and remind of some of the mentalities on the federal side of things. I think it is important to recognize and acknowledge the enviornment we're in, and focus our efforts on working within instead of against it, because it aint changing anytime soon.</strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Minister McGuinty to lead Defence Trade Mission to Japan]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release + Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/minister-mcguinty-to-lead-defence</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/minister-mcguinty-to-lead-defence</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 21 Jun 2026 15:47:57 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!9JlA!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff5bb758d-b21c-48b3-a038-20dc69cf051c_453x73.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/f5bb758d-b21c-48b3-a038-20dc69cf051c_453x73.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/f5bb758d-b21c-48b3-a038-20dc69cf051c_453x73.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>June 21, 2026 &#8211; Ottawa, Ontario &#8211; National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces</strong></p><p>The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, will travel to Japan from June 22 to 25 to advance Canada&#8211;Japan defence relations, strengthen economic ties, and promote collaboration between Canadian and Japanese defence industries.</p><p>For the first time, the Minister, alongside Minister Sidhu, Canada&#8217;s Minister of International Trade, will lead a Defence Trade Mission, to advance economic, industrial, and technological collaboration between Canada and Japan. During the trade mission, the Minister will engage with Canadian and Japanese companies and stakeholders to promote partnership opportunities in key sectors, including defence, aerospace, advanced technologies, and supply chain resilience. These activities support Canada&#8217;s broader Defence Industrial Strategy, which focuses on strengthening domestic capabilities, deepening partnerships with allies and partners, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Canadian industry.</p><p>During his trip, the Minister will meet with Japan&#8217;s Minister of Defense, Shinjiro Koizumi, to discuss shared security priorities, including regional stability and opportunities to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.</p><p>The Minister will hold a callback during his trip. Details will be shared as they become available.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: Take note of the dates, and also take note of who joins the Minister on this trip. I expect we'll see something, there are a few opportunities, primarily in space where Canadian companies are pushing hard for Japanese contracts.</strong></p><p><strong>Also take note for CPSP. I dont think we do thos without Mcguinty present, so make note of when he is and isnt in country.</strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Minister McGuinty Advances NATO Priorities and Defence Cooperation During European Visit]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/minister-mcguinty-advances-nato-priorities</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/minister-mcguinty-advances-nato-priorities</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 15:41:19 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!t6P4!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F60bae33e-8a38-4fea-b93c-dd33395de69e_886x152.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/60bae33e-8a38-4fea-b93c-dd33395de69e_886x152.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/60bae33e-8a38-4fea-b93c-dd33395de69e_886x152.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>June 19, 2026 &#8211; Luxembourg City, Luxembourg &#8211; National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces</strong></p><p>The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, has concluded a productive visit to Europe, including engagements in Brussels, Belgium, where he participated in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Defence Ministers&#8217; Meeting and the 35th Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), and in Luxembourg, where he strengthened bilateral defence cooperation and advanced key initiatives with Allied partners.</p><p>At the NATO Defence Ministers&#8217; Meeting, Minister McGuinty highlighted Canada&#8217;s continued progress in strengthening its military capabilities and contributions to NATO&#8217;s collective defence. He outlined significant defence investments made in 2025 and reaffirmed Canada&#8217;s commitment to meeting the new NATO Defence Investment Pledge of 5% of gross domestic product by 2035. These investments are enhancing the readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces and strengthening Canada&#8217;s contributions to collective defence, continental security, and international stability.</p><p>While in Brussels, Minister McGuinty held a series of bilateral meetings with Allied counterparts to advance shared priorities, including strengthening operational cooperation, deepening defence industrial ties, and reinforcing collective security. This included the signing of a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with Iceland, which will enhance regional security, expand opportunities for joint training and operations, and strengthen coordination on shared priorities such as Arctic security. The agreement underscores Canada&#8217;s commitment to working closely with Nordic and North Atlantic Allies to address evolving security challenges.</p><p>At the UDCG, Minister McGuinty joined Allies and partners in discussions on sustaining support for Ukraine. Canada reaffirmed its commitment to providing military training and assistance and emphasized the importance of coordinated long-term support to strengthen Ukraine&#8217;s security and resilience. Canada also confirmed its readiness to contribute to a scalable force to the Coalition of the Willing, should conditions allow, reinforcing its support for Ukraine&#8217;s sovereignty and long-term defence capacity.</p><p>Following his engagements in Brussels, Minister McGuinty travelled to Luxembourg, where he further advanced Canada&#8217;s defence partnerships and cooperation with Allied counterparts. During his visit, the Minister met with Claude Wiseler, President of the Chamber of Deputies, and members of the Foreign Affairs Committee. Discussions focused on expanding bilateral cooperation, including in emerging domains such as space and cyber, as well as continued collaboration within NATO.</p><p>The Minister also held a bilateral meeting with Luxembourg&#8217;s Minister of Defence, Yuriko Backes, at Bourglinster Castle. The meeting reinforced the strong defence relationship between Canada and Luxembourg and identified opportunities to deepen cooperation between the Canadian Armed Forces and the Luxembourg Armed Forces.</p><p>A key focus of discussions in Luxembourg was the Defence, Security, and Resilience Bank (DSRB) initiative. Canada and Luxembourg are working closely as NATO Allies to advance the DSRB as an important effort to strengthen collective security and resilience. Minister McGuinty thanked Luxembourg for its leadership and support in encouraging broader Allied participation ahead of the NATO Summit and expressed Canada&#8217;s commitment to continued collaboration toward the successful launch of the initiative.</p><p>These engagements set the stage for the NATO Leaders&#8217; Summit in July, where Canada will continue to work closely with Allies to advance shared priorities, strengthen collective defence, and support international stability.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quotes</h4><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p style="text-align: center;"><em>&#8220;Canada is working closely with our Allies to strengthen collective defence, support Ukraine, and address evolving security challenges. Our engagements in Brussels and Luxembourg demonstrate Canada&#8217;s commitment to NATO, to investing in our military capabilities, and to deepening partnerships that enhance security across the Euro-Atlantic region.&#8221;</em></p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence</em></p></div><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quick facts</h4><ul><li><p>NATO is a cornerstone of Canada&#8217;s international security policy. Canada steadfastly supports its principle of collective defence by providing direct support to NATO missions and operations.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Canada is contributing its largest sustained military presence in Europe in more than 30 years, demonstrating our commitment to NATO&#8217;s deterrence and defence posture.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Since February 2022, Canada has committed more than $25.5 billion in total assistance to Ukraine, including $8.5 billion in military assistance.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Canada also contributes to four Capability Coalitions under the UDCG, including the Air Force Capability Coalition, the Armour Capability Coalition, the Drone Capability Coalition, and the IT Capability Coalition.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Since 2015, the Canadian Armed Forces has trained over 50,000 members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine under Operation UNIFIER, including approximately 16,000 trained since February 2022.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Canada also contributes personnel, including to key leadership positions to NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine, which coordinates the provision of military equipment and training to Ukraine.</p><p></p></li><li><p>Op REASSURANCE is Canada&#8217;s contribution to NATO&#8217;s deterrence and defence efforts, and it is Canada&#8217;s largest international military commitment involving the deployment of land, sea, and air elements to Europe. </p><p></p></li><li><p>Earlier this year, Op NANOOK was conducted in alignment with Canada&#8217;s broader Arctic operations and contributes to the Canadian Armed Forces&#8217; support to NATO&#8217;s enhanced Vigilance Activity ARCTIC SENTRY.</p><p></p></li><li><p>The Defence, Security, and Resilience Bank (DSRB) is a multilateral initiative aimed at strengthening collective security by financing strategic defence, security, and resilience capabilities among participating allies and partners.</p></li></ul>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Secretary of State Fuhr concludes visits to Berlin and Paris to support and promote Canada's defence industry and strengthen collaboration with EU allies]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release + Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/secretary-of-state-fuhr-concludes</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/secretary-of-state-fuhr-concludes</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 23:25:10 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!le0_!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe421f0c8-ed34-4818-a66e-30e15b74e05f_1200x628.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/e421f0c8-ed34-4818-a66e-30e15b74e05f_1200x628.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/e421f0c8-ed34-4818-a66e-30e15b74e05f_1200x628.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>OTTAWA, ON, June 19, 2026 /CNW/ -</strong> The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), represented the Government of Canada at two major international trade shows last week in Berlin and Paris to discuss shared defence priorities and promote Canada and Canadian companies on an international scale.</p><p>Secretary of State Fuhr met with counterparts from key allies and industry leaders to advance multilateral defence relationships, industrial partnerships and innovation, using the opportunity to discuss global security policy challenges with decision-makers and thought leaders from around the world.</p><p>Secretary of State Fuhr also highlighted Canada's new Defence Investment Agency (DIA), which is accelerating and streamlining defence procurements, supporting Canadian industry and fostering collaboration with international partners.</p><p>As NATO allies, Canada and Germany cooperate closely on security and defence issues. NATO is the cornerstone of both Canada's and Germany's defence. At the ILA Berlin Air Show (German: Internationale Luft- und Raumfahrtausstellung (ILA)) in Berlin, Secretary of State Fuhr met with industry and trade representatives to discuss ways to strengthen defence innovation, industrial capacity, and collective security, in particular around air defence. He also met with partners to discuss priorities, potential investment and opportunities for both Canadian and German firms, and how they can enhance cooperation and commercial trade.</p><p>At Eurosatory 2026, the Global Event for Defence and Security, in Paris, France, Secretary of State Fuhr co-hosted the EU-Canada Defence Industry Dialogue with industry and trade representatives and represented Canada at high-level meetings with counterparts, including the Direction generale de l'armement, which graciously hosted the Canadian delegation. During the discussion, he emphasized Canada's commitment to collaboration and deeper supply chain integration with key allies, and spoke of the vital importance of maintaining a strong EU-Canada strategic partnership in a rapidly evolving geopolitical context.</p><p>Secretary of State Fuhr also participated in the official opening of the Canada Pavilion at Eurosatory 2026, voicing support for Canadian industry and innovation, and Canada's position as a trusted and reliable supplier of technologies to our NATO allies. He also participated at a reception which brought key Canadian and French stakeholders at the Residence du Canada to celebrate both Eurosatory and the Vivatech Conference.</p><p>The DIA's mandate includes engaging industry, both in Canada and internationally, earlier in the procurement process, supporting innovation and aligning procurement strategies with partner nations to deliver new capabilities to the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Coast Guard faster. Through these engagements, Canada will build resilient defence industrial partnerships that strengthen our alliances and create opportunities for Canadian industry to innovate and compete globally.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>Quotes</h4><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>"Canada remains committed to strengthening its defence industrial base and renewing its relationship with Canadian industry. Participation at these events is crucial for promoting Canadian business, partnering with other countries, and learning about new capabilities relevant for the Canadian Armed Forces. The DIA's procurement leadership will be essential to delivering efficient, transparent contracting that supports sovereign defence capabilities."</em></p><p><em>The Honourable Stephen Fuhr</em></p><p><em>Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)</em></p></div><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: This is the first I'm seeing the DIA put out a release like this. I like it. Someone needs to tell everyone what Fuhr is doing other than me! Hope they do it more</strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[BREAKING: MDA Space announces definitive agreement to acquire US-based Blue Canyon Technologies LLC]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release + Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/breaking-mda-space-announces-definitive</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/breaking-mda-space-announces-definitive</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 16:20:08 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!vH3q!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fe1c273cc-ca49-4cea-a952-ae1db0e0a7ce_1280x720.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/e1c273cc-ca49-4cea-a952-ae1db0e0a7ce_1280x720.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/e1c273cc-ca49-4cea-a952-ae1db0e0a7ce_1280x720.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><h5>Expands Total Addressable Market for MDA Space</h5><h5>Positions company to further pursue substantial US defence market opportunities</h5><h5>Adds a profitable, cash-generating business with 18-year history</h5><h5>Transaction expected to be accretive to Adjusted EBITDA1 and Adjusted EPS1 in 2027</h5><h5>Adds high-quality spacecraft and satellite component supplier business and US$3.5B (approx. C$4.9B) to pipeline </h5><h5>Complementary technology and customer set</h5><h5>Adds key talent &amp; manufacturing facilities in Denver, Colorado space &amp; aerospace hub</h5><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>TORONTO, June 19, 2026 /CNW/ - </strong>MDA Space Ltd. (TSX:MDA) (NYSE:MDA) (the "Company"), a trusted mission partner to the rapidly expanding global space industry, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of the membership interests of Blue Canyon Technologies LLC in an all-cash transaction for a purchase price and enterprise value of US$620 million (approximately C$874 million), subject to purchase price adjustments. Blue Canyon Technologies (BCT) is a spacecraft and satellite component manufacturer and mission services provider, currently part of RTX's Raytheon business.</p><p>With more than 85 spacecraft launched and 3,500+ products on orbit, BCT has established impressive flight heritage and mission success since the company was founded in 2008. Once completed, the transaction is expected to provide MDA Space with a strategic business and manufacturing footprint to capitalize on growing demand in the US government market for defence space missions. With over 400 highly skilled employees and two manufacturing facilities in the Denver, Colorado space and aerospace hub, BCT offers a diverse and innovative product portfolio that enables a broad range of missions for the space economy.</p><p><em>"The acquisition of Blue Canyon Technologies is expected to accelerate our growth strategy by increasing our US market opportunities with highly complementary capabilities, local manufacturing footprint and a skilled and specialized talent base," </em>said Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space. <em>"Securing those strategic benefits on an accretive basis with a profitable and cash-generating business makes this an ideal fit for MDA Space expansion and continued shareholder value creation." </em></p><p></p><h4>Transaction Details</h4><p>The transaction will add a profitable, cash-generating business that is expected to be accretive to Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EPS in 2027. With an 18-year history, BCT is a high-quality spacecraft and satellite component supplier that will add US$3.5B (approximately C$4.9B) to our opportunity pipeline. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions and required regulatory approvals, and is fully committed and financed at signing through senior secured debt. As part of our ongoing capital allocation framework, we will evaluate opportunities to optimize our capital structure over time, subject to market conditions and broader capital deployment priorities. This transaction is expected to result in 2026 pro forma leverage within our stated target range of 1.5x to 2.5x net debt to last twelve months adjusted EBITDA. </p><p></p><h4>Conference Call</h4><p>MDA Space will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the transaction on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. ET. Interested parties can join the call by dialing 1-416-945-7677 (Toronto area) or 1-888-699-1199 (toll-free North America) or +44-800-279-7040 (toll-free United Kingdom) and entering the conference ID 30111. A live webcast of the conference call and an accompanying slide presentation will be available at https://mda-en.investorroom.com/events-presentations.</p><p>A replay of the webcast will be archived on the MDA Space Investor Relations website following the call. Parties may also access a recording of the call, which will be available until June 26, 2026, by dialing 1-888-660-6345 and entering the passcode 30111#.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS</h4><p>This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects the company's current expectations regarding future events. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, information with respect to the Company's objectives and strategies to achieve these objectives, as well as information with respect to the Company's beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates, intentions and views of future events, including statements regarding the proposed acquisition, the anticipated timing for the closing of the acquisition, the anticipated benefits, synergies and growth opportunities expected to result from the acquisition, and any projected, estimated or forecasted financial information presented in connection therewith. There can be no assurance that: (i) the acquisition will be completed on the anticipated timeline, or at all, and the closing of the acquisition may be delayed or may not occur within the anticipated timeframe or at all; (ii) the conditions to the closing of the acquisition will be satisfied, including the receipt of all required regulatory, governmental and third-party approvals, and the failure to obtain any such approvals or satisfy any such conditions could delay or prevent the closing of the acquisition; (iii) any projected, estimated or forecasted financial information presented in connection with the acquisition will be achieved, as such projections are based on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, and actual results may differ materially from those projected, estimated or forecasted; and (iv) the anticipated strategic benefits, growth opportunities and synergies described in connection with the acquisition will be realized as expected, or at all, as such benefits may take longer to realize than anticipated, may be more costly to achieve than expected, or may not be realized at all.</p><p>All forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by MDA Space in light of management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate, and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of MDA Space to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons, including without limitation the risk that the acquisition will not be completed on the anticipated timeline or at all, the risk that conditions to the closing of the acquisition will not be satisfied, including the receipt of all required regulatory, governmental and third-party approvals, and the risks and uncertainties detailed under the "Risk Factors" section of MDA Space's annual information form dated March 4, 2026. Although MDA Space believes that the assumptions underlying these statements are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect and there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements or information included within this press release. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, MDA Space is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>ABOUT MDA SPACE</h4><p>Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space (TSX:MDA) (NYSE:MDA) is a trusted mission partner to the global defence and space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The global MDA Space team of more than 4,000 space experts has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission -- bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that's been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we'll take you there. For more information, visit mda.space.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: WOW. This was absolutely not what I expected to see on a Friday morning. This will get glossed by a lot of people, but this is absolutely a big freaking deal. It not only positions MDA well, but also helps solve one of their big supply chain vulnerabilities they have.</strong></p><p><strong>For those that don't know, Blue Canyon is an RTX company that primarily develops Cube/Micro satellites, standardized buses, and satellite components like reaction wheels, gyroscopes, solar systems, batteries, etc.</strong></p><p><strong>Primarily they are known for their XACT GNC system, and FlexCore but mainly XACT, essentially the autonomous steering brain for a satellite for those uninitiated. Its entire job is to keep the spacecraft perfectly stable and pointed exactly where it needs to go in the vacuum of space.</strong></p><p><strong>By handling all the complex navigation math automatically, XACT gives a tiny satellite the pinpoint aiming accuracy required of a modern, maneuverable constellation. XACT is specifically designed to also be integrated onto small and micro satellite buses.</strong></p><p><strong>For MDA, XACT/FlexCore is probably the most significant technical part of this acquisition. Its acquisition helps fill a major gap in MDA's supply chain for GNC systems, something they've already been a customer with Blue Canyon on. Until now, this has been a big area where MDA has had to purchase from outside.</strong></p><p><strong>With MDA charging to establish themselves as an end-to-end, vertically integrated manufacturing base, acquiring Blue Canyon helps immediately fix a few of those major gaps. Along with XACT/FlexCore this acquisition also gives MDA access to Blue Canyon's solar array and battery systems, another critical area that MDA has historically gone to others for.</strong></p><p><strong>There are a few things still with gaps, like cOBCs and GNSS systems, that are likely to remain out of this network, but the acquisition of Blue Canyon does help bolster the company's internal supply chain significantly.</strong></p><p><strong>It also significantly increases the company's manufacturing footprint in the United States by including Blue Canyon's 31,000 square foot CubeSat facility and their 80,000 square foot headquarters in Lafayette, which includes manufacturing facilities for the company's larger buses, like the Saturn 400.</strong></p><p><strong>The buses themselves, while potentially useful, are not the star to me of this deal. Blue Canyon has a number of proprietary designs under its banner from small CubeSats up to its largest, the Saturn 400, a 600kg satellite, ESPA-Grande-class bus optimized for U.S. Space Force and missile-defense requirements.</strong></p><p><strong>The Saturn 400 could be very interesting for MDA, depending. It fits nicely between microsatellites and MDA's Aurora Bus in terms of size and payload. It features high SwAP margins specifically to support the integration of AESA and SAR payloads.</strong></p><p><strong>Its development came out of DARPA's Blackjack Program, which aimed to investigate whether a constellation of small, relatively inexpensive Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites could autonomously process data, share it via optical inter-satellite links (laser mesh networks), and survive in a contested environment.</strong></p><p><strong>That was with the Saturn-200. The 400 came out of the demands of the Golden Dome and Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) program, which demands something larger than the 200 to accommodate larger payloads.</strong></p><p><strong>That, of course, is the other big thing about this acquisition. MDA is already one of many players (quite literally thousands) selected to participate in SHIELD. The company, though, has lacked a present, integrated American footprint to really participate as the Trump Administration wishes.</strong></p><p><strong>Blue Canyon holds facility security clearances from the U.S. Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency. The company has already participated in DND programs, and MDA is getting all of that. The facilities, workforce. That alone gives them a major boost to their American expansion efforts.</strong></p><p><strong>Even then, Canada benefits by further bringing significant IP under Canadian control. We talk a lot about IP, especially with a Defence Industrial Strategy and DIA that puts a premium. Oftentimes we focus on creating viable pathways for Canadian IP to be developed, but we also have cases like this, where industry, when given the opportunities, can reliably secure their own IP sources under a Canadian banner.</strong></p><p><strong>That comes from companies being given the chances and support to succeed, something that MDA has been given the mandate for over the last year.</strong></p><p><strong>They're contracted with <a href="https://mda.space/article/mda-space-selected-by-bae-systems-for-u.s.-space-systems-command-meo-epoch2-constellation">BAE to support the U.S. Space Systems Command (SSC) MEO EPOCH 2 Constellation program</a>. They're contracted to deliver the <a href="https://mda.space/article/mda-space-awarded-contract-with-canadian-department-of-national-defence-to-deliver-ground-based-optical-capability-for-space-surveillance">GBO component of SOS 2</a>, Theyre contracted on <a href="https://mda.space/article/mda-space-signs-strategic-partnership-with-the-department-of-national-defence-and-telesat-to-deliver-military-satellite-communications">ESCP-P with Telesat</a>. Theyre <a href="https://mda.space/article/https://mda.space/article/mda-space-and-hanwha-sign-mou-to-pursue-korean-military-constellation-program">Teaming with Hanwha to pursue the Korean Military Constellation Program</a>. They're pursuing Chorus and Midnight. There is an absolute ton of stuff they're doing, even with losing some pretty major deals last year.</strong></p><p><strong>This deal puts MDA in a massive benefit position to pursue American contracts, brings a massive list of critical components that they&#8217;ve been missing under their banner, and secures a significant mass of IP under a Canadian banner. This is the type of acquisition that I expect we&#8217;ll see the folks at the DIA use as an example of Canadian companies expanding and supporting the Defence Industrial Strategy and Defence Industrial Base.</strong></p><p><strong>Overall a fantastic move, a huge congrats to the folks at MDA!</strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[NautiGEN Launches Hydrogen Power Solutions for Maritime Operations, Autonomous Systems and Subsea Applications]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/nautigen-launches-hydrogen-power</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/nautigen-launches-hydrogen-power</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 05:02:07 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!O0cf!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F77db0ba1-f73a-4d3b-9e5b-886cd6c9849b_980x551.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/77db0ba1-f73a-4d3b-9e5b-886cd6c9849b_980x551.png&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/77db0ba1-f73a-4d3b-9e5b-886cd6c9849b_980x551.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><h5>New maritime fuel cell company introduces power technology designed to extend endurance, support subsea persistence and reduce operational footprint</h5><div><hr></div><p><strong>Windsor, CT | June 8, 2026 &#8212; </strong>NautiGEN, Inc., a maritime hydrogen power company formed by Cellula Robotics and Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc., has launched on World Oceans Day to bring high- density fuel cell power to maritime operations, autonomous systems and subsea applications.</p><p>The company is entering the market with a focus on one of the practical constraints shaping marine technology: power. As subsea vehicles, seabed systems and surface platforms are asked to operate farther from support vessels, remain deployed for longer and carry more capable payloads, energy availability is central to mission planning, system design and operating cost.</p><p>Battery systems remain important across the sector, but longer missions expose practical limits. NautiGEN has developed fuel cell systems to address those conditions. The architecture separates the fuel cell power plant from the stored hydrogen and oxygen that feed it, allowing mission energy to be increased through storage. For manufacturers and integrators, this offers a more flexible route to balancing endurance, payload energy, range and mission availability. Initial applications include subsea vehicles, static seabed power systems and surface uncrewed systems. </p><p><em>&#8220;NautiGEN was created to solve a very practical problem for the maritime market,&#8221; </em>said Neil Manning, CEO of Cellula Robotics. <em>&#8220;As missions become longer and more complex, power can decide what is operationally possible. The value of hydrogen fuel cells is not only increased endurance. It is the ability to reduce recovery cycles, support persistent operations and give platform designers more freedom in how they balance range, payload and mission duration.&#8221;</em></p><p>The technology base has already been demonstrated in a subsea environment. The fuel cell system powered Cellula Robotics&#8217; Envoy AUV through a more than 2,000 km fully submerged mission over 385 hours of continuous operation, including over 4,000 non-linear maneuvers. The mission demonstrated how fuel cell power can support longer-range transit, extended time on task and fewer recovery events between missions.</p><p>NautiGEN&#8217;s systems are also being developed for lower-impact maritime power. Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity without combustion, with water as the primary by-product. The technology draws on Infinity&#8217;s experience in demanding power applications, including NASA programs, and uses a modular 2 kW core architecture that can be integrated in parallel for higher power requirements.</p><p><em>&#8220;Marine operators need power systems that can be trusted through the full mission, not just at launch,&#8221; </em>said William Smith, President and CEO of Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. <em>&#8220;Our fuel cell technology has been developed for demanding environments where reliability, integration and safety matter. NautiGEN brings that capability into maritime markets where longer endurance and persistent power are becoming increasingly important.&#8221;</em></p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>About NautiGEN</h4><p>NautiGEN is a maritime hydrogen fuel cell company launched by Cellula Robotics and Infinity</p><p>Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. to advance high-density power solutions for maritime operations, autonomous systems, subsea vehicles, seabed power systems and surface uncrewed systems. Its technology is being developed for applications where endurance, reliable power and efficient mission logistics are central to operational performance.</p><p>www.nautigenpower.com</p><p></p><h4>About Cellula Robotics Ltd.</h4><p>Cellula Robotics Ltd. is a privately owned marine technology company specializing in long-range autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) systems and integrated subsea solutions.</p><p>Headquartered in Burnaby, British Columbia, with operations across Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, Cellula supports defense, security, survey, and environmental customers operating in complex maritime environments.</p><p>Cellula designs and manufactures hydrogen fuel cell-powered and long-endurance AUV platforms as part of broader system-level architectures that enable persistent subsea monitoring and awareness. By combining endurance, payload delivery and integration expertise, the company supports critical infrastructure protection, geophysical survey, scientific research and other mission-driven applications.</p><p>www.cellula.com</p><p></p><h4>About Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc.</h4><p>Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. is a market leader in the design and manufacture of air-independent, zero-gravity electrochemical systems including fuel cell systems for space and underwater power applications, and electrolyzers for space life support and terrestrial green hydrogen production. Founded in 2002, Infinity is located in Windsor, CT USA.</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Where Was Mr. Fuhr Today? (06/18/2026)]]></title><description><![CDATA[Dutch Intelligences 11th favorite ongoing series]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/where-was-mr-fuhr-today-06182026</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/where-was-mr-fuhr-today-06182026</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 19:15:25 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!gwlc!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F350cf30e-6db5-4c6a-ab27-18711b2fb7c6_590x375.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/350cf30e-6db5-4c6a-ab27-18711b2fb7c6_590x375.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/350cf30e-6db5-4c6a-ab27-18711b2fb7c6_590x375.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p>He is wrapping up his extended trip to Eurosatory! The Secretary of State for Defence Procurement put out the following statement amd images as we close out on Eurosatory 2026. As I understand it, the SOS will be heading to Australia from here.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/8640d159-efb8-4b52-96e9-9021790c92bc_1280x960.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/4151962f-6096-45f0-81d0-f786f3c33145_590x433.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/61608fc5-63e7-4654-afbe-6271ba438cc9_1280x960.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/df95f6cf-fc12-4bad-915d-e1b598a5bf89_960x1280.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/d1f32e60-5143-425e-8b5d-82e4a246c1e6_400x300.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/cba8ac33-e756-4a9e-a8e6-e7ffdc5ed089_719x959.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/ad0ea14f-ae04-49f2-ad27-90cb20329e67_720x541.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/05112625-53f7-4525-8190-a23c83e5a678_719x959.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2dcddf81-409c-41f4-b2ff-16e55db91feb_720x541.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/76249e01-15c0-4a3c-af7b-4b868ab90342_1456x1454.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>Canada's defence industry has the talent and capability to lead. When we connect that strength with trusted allies, we all come out stronger.</em></p><p><em>This week I attended Eurosatory in Paris, one of the world's leading defence and security exhibitions, where more than 150 Canadian companies showcased their capabilities alongside counterparts from like-minded nations around the world. Engagements like this are how we put Canada's build, partner, and buy approach to defence procurement into action, showcasing Canadian industry to the world, and identifying partnership opportunities to work with trusted allies.</em></p><p><em>By connecting with global partners and industry leaders, we are helping Canadian companies compete internationally, strengthening supply chains, and ensuring the Canadian Armed Forces get the capabilities they need faster.</em></p><p><em>This is how we deliver: by building at home when we can and partnering with allies to support both our security and our economy.</em></p></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[SkyAlyne celebrates delivery of first CT-153 Juno helicopter for FAcT program]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/skyalyne-celebrates-delivery-of-first</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/skyalyne-celebrates-delivery-of-first</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:47:44 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ELu3!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fb0b9e1d7-c6c7-47c2-a19c-85a7e13b80b2_2500x1669.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/b0b9e1d7-c6c7-47c2-a19c-85a7e13b80b2_2500x1669.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/5be923e9-e35e-4071-9eb1-5952ee296ac2_800x450.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/81c36c27-fdc5-47b6-bc4c-b0c2aea70dd7_800x533.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/bae5f179-8bc4-4e7d-999b-f48d437c2fe0_800x594.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/62e48b56-2037-401e-a861-e39b5e4f762e_800x533.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/7520fcf3-8001-49a9-9197-0571c0b43956_768x512.jpeg&quot;},{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/5e799593-6d09-483d-b20f-a0dcb91c663d_768x432.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/18faf89c-17f5-450e-8ed7-7d63bdd68bf2_1456x1946.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>June 17, 2026 // Ottawa, ON and Southport, MB &#8212;</strong> SkyAlyne is proud to join Airbus Helicopters, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), and the Government of Canada in celebrating delivery completion for the first CT-153 Juno (Airbus H135) helicopter for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. Following an appearance at the CANSEC Defence Tradeshow in Ottawa, aircraft 153201 was ferried to Southport, Manitoba where it underwent the final acceptance by the Government of Canada, and ownership of the aircraft was officially transferred to the RCAF. </p><p>The CT-153 Juno fleet will serve as the Advanced Flying Training &#8211; Rotary Wing platform within FAcT, supporting development of core pilot competencies including basic rotary-wing instruction, advanced instrument flight rules (IFR) training, and tactical mission preparation. </p><p><em>&#8220;This first helicopter delivery marks an important milestone for the Future Aircrew Training program and reflects the strong collaboration between SkyAlyne, Airbus, the Royal Canadian Air Force, and our industry partners,&#8221; </em>said Kevin Lemke, SkyAlyne&#8217;s General Manager. <em>&#8220;The CT-153 Juno will provide future RCAF pilots with a modern, mission-ready training platform designed to support the operational demands of tomorrow&#8217;s air force.&#8221; </em></p><p>The H135 platform was selected by SkyAlyne for the FAcT program to meet the evolving operational and training requirements of future RCAF rotary-wing aircrew. Equipped with twin engines and the Airbus&#8217; Helionix avionics suite, the aircraft is capable of meeting all aspects of the pilot Qualification Standard, replacing the two separate helicopter fleets used on the current training program. The modern digital cockpit environment will support a seamless transition to the RCAF&#8217;s operational fleets. In total, SkyAlyne is acquiring 19 of these aircraft for the RCAF as part of the FAcT program. </p><p><em>&#8220;This first delivery is an important step forward for the Future Aircrew Training program and the next generation of Royal Canadian Air Force pilots, and it highlights the depth of capability being delivered here in Canada,&#8221; </em>said Dwayne Charette, President of Airbus Helicopters in Canada. <em>&#8220;It underscores Airbus&#8217; long-term commitment to supporting Canadian defence with trusted, in-country expertise and strengthens the foundation for the missions and partnerships ahead. We are proud to partner with the RCAF and the Government of Canada in delivering the CT-153 Juno and supporting the critical role it will play for years to come.&#8221; </em></p><p>Following initial manufacturing in Germany, Canada&#8217;s Juno&#8217;s are completed and delivered from Airbus Helicopters in Canada facility in Fort Erie, Ontario, where work includes installation of Canadian-developed Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) elements, modifications to avionics and communications systems, and custom cockpit development tailored to RCAF operational requirements, and painting of the RCAF &#8216;Reflect Forward&#8217; livery. </p><p>FAcT is an all-encompassing 25-year solution that will deliver ab-initio training to RCAF Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers (ACSOs), and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators (AES Ops). SkyAlyne, a joint venture of CAE and KF Aerospace, is the Prime Contractor and industry partner to the RCAF on FAcT. The program is currently in a multi-year transition period to become the sole ab initio Pilot and Aircrew training program for the RCAF, as the current three separate RCAF training programs conclude, and their responsibilities are combined into FAcT.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>ABOUT</h4><h4>SkyAlyne: The Future of Aircrew Training</h4><p>SkyAlyne is a team of defence, training, simulation, and aviation industry experts assembled from across Canada, working to prepare the next generation of Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Pilots and Aircrew as the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program provider. SkyAlyne was formed in 2018 as a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace, two Canadian aviation, training, and defence leaders. The partnership was built to jointly answer the call for the Government of Canada&#8217;s FAcT program. In spring 2024, SkyAlyne was officially contracted to partner with the RCAF and deliver the FAcT program.</p><p>Learn more: SkyAlyne.ca</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[OSI and TKMS Sign MOU Supporting Canadian Patrol Submarine Project]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/osi-and-tkms-sign-mou-supporting</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/osi-and-tkms-sign-mou-supporting</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:40:20 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!rl2U!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fc5ee6933-4dd1-44fe-a5a1-ed72314d2d61_946x946.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/c5ee6933-4dd1-44fe-a5a1-ed72314d2d61_946x946.png&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/c5ee6933-4dd1-44fe-a5a1-ed72314d2d61_946x946.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><h5>A Made-in-Canada Solution for the Royal Canadian Navy.</h5><h5>Framework to explore OSI&#8217;s WECDIS into CPSP naval platforms.</h5><h5>ECPINS enables advanced, tactical submarine navigation across 18 classes.</h5><h5>NATO-approved Canadian WECDIS deployed on 60+ submarines worldwide.</h5><div><hr></div><p>OSI Maritime Systems (OSI) is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with TKMS, establishing a collaborative framework to explore opportunities in systems integration and maritime capability development for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP).</p><p>The CPSP is a Government of Canada procurement initiative launched to replace the Royal Canadian Navy&#8217;s (RCN) Victoria-class submarines. The project aims to procure up to 12 submarines to enable sustained operations in the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic regions.</p><p>Under the terms of the MOU, the Parties intend to establish a framework for technical and commercial dialogue aimed at exploring the integration of OSI&#8217;s navigation software, ECPINS, into TKMS&#8217;s naval platforms for the purposes of CPSP.</p><p>Developed in Canada, ECPINS is the only third-party Warship Electronic Chart Display and Information System (WECDIS) solution type approved to NATO STANAG 4564. The software is deployed across 18 classes of submarines and is currently in service on more than 60 submarines operated by NATO and allied navies worldwide, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Sweden, the Netherlands, Chile, Singapore, Indonesia, South Africa and Brazil.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>Quotes:</h4><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>Jim Girard, President &amp; CEO, OSI Maritime Systems</em></p><p><em>&#8220;This MOU reflects OSI&#8217;s enthusiasm for the objectives of Canada&#8217;s Defence Industrial Strategy by strengthening domestic capability, fostering innovation, and building strategic partnerships. Through our collaboration with TKMS, we are creating a pathway to ensure our navy is sailing with the best-class submarine navigation suite.&#8221;</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>Jim Davison, VP, Business Development, OSI Maritime Systems</em></p><p><em>&#8220;This collaboration reflects a strong alignment between OSI and TKMS in advancing integrated maritime capabilities, and we are proud that OSI is recognized as a global leader in tactical navigation technology, and that we are recognized as a &#8220;Made in Canada&#8221; solution. We look forward to an ongoing relationship with TKMS both at home and abroad.&#8221;</em></p></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[NorthStar Secures Over CAD$40M with 3 Canadian Space Division to Advance Sovereign Space Domain Awareness]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release + Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/northstar-secures-over-cad40m-with</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/northstar-secures-over-cad40m-with</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:55:32 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!yFH8!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fac4241ca-2af9-4018-ab66-ada2379b9784_242x148.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/ac4241ca-2af9-4018-ab66-ada2379b9784_242x148.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/ac4241ca-2af9-4018-ab66-ada2379b9784_242x148.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>MONTREAL, June 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- </strong>NorthStar Earth &amp; Space (&#8220;NorthStar&#8221; or the &#8220;Company&#8221;), a global leader in Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA), today announced the launch of augmented commercial services valued at more than CAD$40 million over 12 months with the Royal Canadian Air Force&#8217;s 3 Canadian Space Division (3 CSD). The agreement enables 3 CSD to integrate NorthStar&#8217;s space-based surveillance capabilities to enhance mission readiness and threat detection in orbit.</p><p>The agreement reinforces NorthStar&#8217;s long-standing commitment to advancing Canada&#8217;s role in the space sector. Headquartered in Montreal, and governed by a majority-Canadian board, NorthStar drives growth through innovation, and sovereign space capabilities. By processing millions of images and observations collected from space- and ground-based sensors, NorthStar delivers precise assessments and predictions of the behaviour of objects in space.</p><p><em>&#8220;This collaboration marks a milestone in the use of commercial innovation to protect Canadian interests in space,&#8221; </em>said Stewart Bain, founder and CEO of NorthStar. <em>&#8220;Integrating NorthStar&#8217;s advanced scanning and detection capabilities will strengthen the mission readiness and national security objectives at the core of 3 CSD&#8217;s mandate.&#8221;</em></p><p>Canada&#8217;s Defence Industrial Strategy recognizes space as a critical operational domain for national security and economic stability. Satellites underpin communications, navigation, climate monitoring, Earth observation and defence operations, making sovereign, mission-ready SDA capabilities essential. These capabilities play a critical role in safeguarding Canada&#8217;s North, where Arctic security and sovereignty are key priorities. NorthStar&#8217;s integrated space-based and ground-based services provide trusted, Canadian controlled data to support this objective.</p><p>RCAF Brig.-Gen Christopher Horner said, <em>&#8220;Space Domain Awareness is foundational to all space operations. Our decisional advantage in both peacetime and conflict is built upon our ability to detect and differentiate threats from the responsible actors in space. NorthStar gives the Canadian Armed Forces the higher ground with advanced SDA services.  Cooperation between 3 CSD and Canada&#8217;s space industry partners remains a fundamental requirement for security in space.&#8221;</em></p><p><em>&#8220;Through Canada&#8217;s new Defence Industrial Strategy, our government is inspiring new partnerships that will strengthen our defence industry, enhance sovereign capabilities, and bolster national security. NorthStar&#8217;s partnership with 3 Canadian Space Division on their sovereign SDA capabilities will advance Canada&#8217;s satellite capacity and equip our Armed Forces with mission-ready tools,&#8221; </em>said the Hon. M&#233;lanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.</p><p>As space becomes an increasingly contested domain, Canada must remain steadfast in maintaining the ability to independently monitor and protect its assets in orbit. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening national capabilities and contributing to the secure and safe use of space.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>About NorthStar Earth &amp; Space</h4><p>NorthStar is the first commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) company to leverage space-based assets that use satellite imagery to continuously scan, detect, and monitor the behaviour of objects in near-Earth orbits. Patented capabilities deliver precise and timely Space Domain Awareness (SDA), contributing to Canada&#8217;s space sovereignty and supporting National Defence objectives. With headquarters in Montreal, Canada, a European headquarters in Luxembourg, and a dedicated US operation in McLean, VA, NorthStar addresses the ever-growing threat of space collisions as a major contribution to empower humanity to preserve our planet.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: NorthStar is one of those companies that doesn't get a lot of notice or love in the space. They aint an MDA, Kepler, or even C-Core to most people. If you are in the space scene, you definetly know of them, but again even amongst that group, NorthStar tends to fall to the sidelines. Acknowledged, but not necessarily noted.</strong></p><p><strong>The Constellation refered to here is Skylark. Skylark is noted as the first commercial space-based satellite constellation dedicated entirely to Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA).</strong></p><p><strong>The initial deployment occurred on January 31, 2024, when Rocket Lab successfully launched the first four satellites (based on Spire Global&#8217;s 16U satellite bus) in the constellation. The complete constellation is designed to feature 24 satellites distributed across six Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) planes, with four satellites per plane. </strong></p><p><strong>Each satellite hosts a passive electro-optical payload featuring a 20 cm aperture telescope and a detector resolution of 1280x1024 pixels. This payload configuration yields a Field of View  of 2.8 by 2.2 degrees and an instantaneous Field of View of 38 microradians, at least to what I could find.</strong></p><p><strong>Unlike traditional ground-based tracking systems that use a track-and-stare approach, the NorthStar constellation utilizes a continuous 24/7 "pushbroom" scanning methodology. Operating at a 1 Hz frame rate, the fully deployed 24-satellite architecture is projected to generate over two million images every day. </strong></p><p><strong>Because the sensors remain essentially fixed relative to the orbital frame, visible Resident Space Objects (RSOs) appear as streaks in the imagery. Analysts can derive precise data regarding an object's trajectory, celestial positioning, photometry, and apparent motion based on the streak's centroid, length, and orientation.</strong></p><p><strong>Skylark had a rough start, primarily with the optical sensors, but as I know it they've managed to develop fixes to the issues presented on the initial batch and are moving ahead. <a href="https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/mda-space-awarded-contract-with-canadian">While Surveillance of Space 2 is moving ahead</a>, there is concern with how much longer Sapphire will last. She is ancient in satellite terms. </strong></p><p><strong>While this won't replace her, it does serve as a complement and creates a bit of a space-based bridge <a href="https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/mda-space-selected-to-deliver-enhanced?r=95jhi">that complements the MDA/Thoth Ground-Based bridge </a>contracted last year before SOS 2 delivers on her Ground and Space-Based Optical Capabilities.</strong></p><p><strong>Also gives some much needed support to NorthStar, who does make good stuff, but definetly has lacked love.</strong></p><p></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Prime Minister Carney meets with Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release + Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/prime-minister-carney-meets-with-826</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/prime-minister-carney-meets-with-826</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:23:35 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!ejnN!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F2104aa26-d197-4dc3-a889-c19dc55d7583_1200x630.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2104aa26-d197-4dc3-a889-c19dc55d7583_1200x630.png&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2104aa26-d197-4dc3-a889-c19dc55d7583_1200x630.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p>Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, on the margins of the 2026 G7 Leaders&#8217; Summit in &#201;vian, France.</p><p>The Prime Minister and the Chancellor noted the significant, unprecedented cooperation between Canada and Germany across energy, critical minerals, and advanced technologies. In one year, Canada and Germany have signed new agreements on artificial intelligence, quantum, and battery technologies; launched the Sovereign Technology Alliance; and secured more than six new critical mineral partnerships. More recently, British Columbia&#8217;s Ksi Lisims LNG has secured landmark agreements with German companies Securing Energy for Europe (SEFE) and Uniper to supply low-carbon Canadian LNG every year to Germany.</p><p>The Prime Minister and the Chancellor welcomed new investment partnerships between their nations, including <strong>two new partnerships in Manitoba involving Canada&#8217;s Sio Silica, German company RCT Solutions, and other partners. The first will support a high-purity silica project, to extract 99.9%+ pure silica sand, highly valued for manufacturing solar panels and semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and defence-related technologies. The second partnership will help build a fully integrated solar manufacturing hub.</strong></p><p>The leaders also issued a joint statement on critical minerals.</p><p>Prime Minister Carney and Chancellor Merz discussed the strong bilateral defence and security relationship. To make it easier for Canadian and German defence industries to partner, they <strong>announced the conclusion of negotiations for a new General Security of Information Agreement</strong>, which will unlock further defence procurement opportunities for Canadian businesses. Prime Minister Carney also underscored Canada&#8217;s efforts to establish the Defence, Security and Resilience Bank to provide multi-year, low-cost financing for defence, security, and resilience initiatives.</p><p>The leaders reaffirmed their enduring support for Ukraine and agreed on the imperative of keeping up pressure on Russia to achieve a just and lasting peace. They discussed the situation in the Middle East, welcomed the peace agreement between the United States and Iran, and stressed the imperative of a durable peace.</p><p>Prime Minister Carney and Chancellor Merz agreed to remain in close contact</p><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: Add another GSOIA. As we stated before, the Canadian government is spending a lot of time and money ensuring that they can get these agreements locked in. We just had one last week with France, and Canada is working on further agreements with the likes of India. </strong></p><p><strong>I am always hesitant to scream CPSP at any investment from either side. A lot of you have asked how I determine, and truth is I mostly just stick to what is confirmed part of packages. If I cant make sure, I try not to include it. Things can be very difficult to sort of lock in, because we don't know bids.</strong></p><p><strong>On that note though, there was always gonna be third-party moves that would be highlighted wven if not technically in the plans or package. That always makes things a little more difficult to assess. </strong></p><p><strong>Either way, locking down GSOIA with the big two Euro in the span of a week is a major achievement.</strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Prime Minister Carney meets with President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/prime-minister-carney-meets-with-7b0</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/prime-minister-carney-meets-with-7b0</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:41:10 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!Tuqn!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F888ebe09-64f1-48e7-91a2-6824e3a64730_1200x630.png" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/888ebe09-64f1-48e7-91a2-6824e3a64730_1200x630.png&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/png&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/888ebe09-64f1-48e7-91a2-6824e3a64730_1200x630.png&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p>Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae Myung, on the margins of the 2026 G7 Leaders&#8217; Summit in &#201;vian, France.</p><p>Prime Minister Carney and President Lee discussed growing collaboration between Canada and Korea, especially on trade and investment. They noted the success of the Team Canada Trade Mission to Korea earlier this year, which unlocked new commercial opportunities for Canadian businesses and created nine new partnerships across clean technology, advanced manufacturing, energy, and agri-food.</p><p>Prime Minister Carney and President Lee launched negotiations for a new <strong>Canada-Korea Defence Cooperation Agreement</strong> to strengthen the partnership on defence science, technology, and materiel. This agreement will reinforce the recent entry into force of the General Security of Information Agreement (GSOIA), which will unlock further defence procurement opportunities for Canadian businesses. Prime Minister Carney underscored Canada&#8217;s efforts to <strong>establish the Defence, Security and Resilience Bank to provide multi-year, low-cost financing for defence, security, and resilience initiatives.</strong></p><p>The leaders emphasised cybersecurity as a key priority sector. With the first round of Canada-Korea Cyber Policy Consultations held earlier this year, they identified opportunities to build shared cyber resilience and ensure the protection of critical infrastructure.</p><p>The leaders supported enhanced cooperation on critical minerals, with <strong>Canada and Korea now developing a joint plan on critical minerals stockpiling by the end of 2026. </strong>This will help secure access to key inputs for emerging technologies and critical industries in both countries.</p><p>The foundation for this partnership is the Action Plan to implement the Canada-Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which is focused on expanding bilateral ties in energy, critical minerals, trade and investment, science and technology, and culture.</p><p>Prime Minister Carney and President Lee agreed to remain in close contact.</p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hanwha Ocean Signs Strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Kanata Clean Power for Proposed Floating LNG Project in Canada]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release +Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/hanwha-ocean-signs-strategic-memorandum</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/hanwha-ocean-signs-strategic-memorandum</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:19:58 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!23q7!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8a316a82-a6b8-46b7-a980-32e826b1db41_400x200.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/8a316a82-a6b8-46b7-a980-32e826b1db41_400x200.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/8a316a82-a6b8-46b7-a980-32e826b1db41_400x200.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><h5>Strategic partnership contemplates collaboration on engineering, construction, operations, investment and LNG offtake for proposed 12 MTPA export facility at Prince Rupert, British Columbia</h5><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>SEOUL, South Korea, and VANCOUVER, BC, June 16, 2026 /CNW/ -</strong> Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. ("Hanwha Ocean") today announced that it has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") with Kanata Clean Power &amp; Climate Technologies Corp. ("Kanata") regarding the proposed development of Kanata LNG, a floating liquefied natural gas ("FLNG") export project planned for Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada. Kanata's proposed project is expected to have a capacity of up to 12 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).</p><p>Kanata estimates total capital expenditures for the project at approximately US$15.7 billion, subject to final engineering, commercial arrangements and regulatory approvals. Under the terms of the MOU, Hanwha Ocean and Kanata intend to explore potential opportunities for cooperation across several technical and commercial areas, including:</p><ol><li><p>Engineering and construction of floating LNG production and related facilities;</p><p></p></li><li><p>Operations and maintenance services over the facilities' operating life;</p><p></p></li><li><p>Strategic equity participation by Hanwha Ocean or affiliated entities;</p><p></p></li><li><p>Long-term LNG purchase arrangements; and</p><p></p></li><li><p>Midstream solutions including LNGC, LNG BV and more.</p></li></ol><p></p><div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a2a68c11-51db-4c30-907a-981948e6902a_400x225.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/a2a68c11-51db-4c30-907a-981948e6902a_400x225.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p>Philippe Levy, President of Hanwha Ocean's Energy Plant Unit, said: <em>"Canada has world-class natural gas resources and strong long-term potential to support reliable LNG supply to Asia-Pacific markets. We are pleased to establish this strategic relationship with Kanata and to explore how Hanwha Ocean's FLNG, offshore engineering, construction, and marine energy capabilities could contribute to the proposed Kanata LNG project. Hanwha Ocean has extensive experience delivering complex offshore energy facilities and believes floating LNG can offer a flexible and scalable pathway for new LNG export developments where the technical, commercial, environmental, and regulatory conditions are properly aligned. This MOU is an important first step. Significant work remains before any final investment or project execution decision can be made, and we look forward to working with Kanata to evaluate the opportunity in a disciplined and responsible manner."</em></p><p>Kanata LNG is being developed as a floating LNG export facility located near Prince Rupert, North America's closest Pacific port to Northeast Asia. The project is intended to leverage modular construction and marine-based liquefaction technology to provide scalable export capacity. Kanata has also offered participating First Nations the opportunity to acquire up to a 50 percent ownership interest in the project, subject to negotiations, financing arrangements and applicable approvals.</p><p>Robert F. Delamar, Chief Executive Officer of Kanata Clean Power &amp; Climate Technologies Corp., said:<em> "We are delighted to welcome Hanwha Ocean as a strategic partner in Kanata LNG through this Memorandum of Understanding. Hanwha brings globally recognized capabilities in floating infrastructure, shipbuilding and energy systems, making it an outstanding collaborator as we advance the project."</em></p><p>The MOU described herein is non-binding and intended solely to express the preliminary intentions of the parties to explore potential cooperation. This announcement does not create any legally binding obligations, nor does it obligate either party to enter into any definitive transaction, execute commercial agreements, or proceed with negotiations. Any future commitments regarding engineering, investment, operations or LNG offtake remain entirely subject to further due diligence, the negotiation and execution of binding agreements, corporate board approvals and customary conditions.</p><p>The proposed Kanata LNG project remains subject to numerous approvals and conditions, including environmental assessments, engagement with Indigenous communities, regulatory approvals and the negotiation and execution of definitive commercial agreements.</p><p>Hanwha Ocean is currently participating in discussions regarding Canada's future submarine capability requirements. This cooperation is consistent with Hanwha's ongoing efforts to contribute to Canada's industrial objectives within the scope of its Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) considerations. The purpose of this MOU is to explore potential areas for industrial cooperation in Canada, including, where permissible under applicable procurement rules, opportunities related to the Canadian Patrol Submarine Program in which Hanwha intends to participate.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>About Hanwha Ocean</h4><h4>www.hanwhaocean.com</h4><p>Hanwha Ocean is a leading global shipbuilder and offshore/onshore EPCIO company with more than four decades of experience in complex naval and commercial shipbuilding programs and energy infrastructure projects. Supported by its large-scale, integrated shipyard in Geoje, South Korea that spans 5-square kilometers and has more than 31,000 employees, the company combines proven industrial capacity with operational experience to deliver modern, in-service naval platforms backed by a resilient through-life support model. Since its establishment in 1973, Hanwha Ocean has delivered more than 1,400 vessels worldwide and has built deep expertise in the design, construction and sustainment of submarines and surface combatants for the Republic of Korea Navy. The company builds approximately 45 commercial and naval ships each year.</p><p>Hanwha Ocean also develops and delivers advanced offshore energy facilities and floating production solutions, leveraging its world-class engineering, manufacturing, and project execution capabilities. The company has a proven track record of successfully executing more than 280 offshore and onshore energy projects worldwide.</p><p></p><h4>About Kanata Clean Power &amp; Climate Technologies Corp.</h4><h4>www.kanataclean.com</h4><p>Kanata Clean Power &amp; Climate Technologies Corp. is a Canadian energy development company focused on developing low-carbon energy projects. Kanata's core mission is to partner with First Nations to unlock greater value for Canada's abundant natural gas reserves, while providing energy security to Canada's Indo-Pacific allies.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: Not shocking to see some energy movement at this stage. The ability of Hanwha to tap into it's forty billion subsidiary and such is one of it's biggest advantages. They have internal options that can target across multiple industries without relying on outside partners to bring to the table or execute.</strong></p><p><strong>I have zero clue what Kanata LNG is ngl. So I can't comment on them, but good for them I guess. More LNG is good in my books. In my mind, hitting that 100 mtpa figure shouldn't be as hard as it has been. This contributes fairly to it.</strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[TKMS commissions Valbruna ASW to supply non-magnetic submarine steel to support the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP)]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/tkms-commissions-valbruna-asw-to</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/tkms-commissions-valbruna-asw-to</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:01:05 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!N6zU!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F77917419-4239-4d5c-b59d-cd113a4a5028_487x464.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/77917419-4239-4d5c-b59d-cd113a4a5028_487x464.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/77917419-4239-4d5c-b59d-cd113a4a5028_487x464.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><h5>The order is intended to accelerate the certification process for non-magnetic submarine steel.</h5><h5>It is based on a cooperation agreement for the smelting and production of non-magnetic submarine steel.</h5><h5>This combines TKMS' global submarine expertise with Valbruna ASW's extensive experience in stainless steel smelting, metallurgical engineering, and materials processing.</h5><div><hr></div><p>TKMS has placed an initial order for approximately 70 tons of non-magnetic submarine steel with Valbruna ASW Inc., a company of the Acciaierie Valbruna Group and a global manufacturer of specialty stainless steels and nickel alloys. The provision of materials and the auditing of the supply chain are intended to help the Canadian subsidiary obtain classification according to the requirements of the German Institute for Defense Material and Production Technology (WIWeB).</p><p>Both companies have also signed a cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening industrial collaboration in advanced submarine programs. To support Canada's CPSP submarine program, the agreement enables both parties to explore, develop, and implement cooperation in the smelting and production of the non-magnetic submarine steel required for modern submarine platforms.</p><p><em>"TKMS places great importance on strong partnerships with leading industrial suppliers capable of meeting the demanding material requirements of next-generation submarine platforms," &#8203;&#8203;</em>says Thomas Keupp, Chief Sales Officer at TKMS.<em> "Through this agreement with Valbruna ASW, we are strengthening our collaboration on critical materials for submarine applications while exploring opportunities to support Canada's future submarine program."</em></p><p>As part of the collaboration, the parties will evaluate how Valbruna ASW can obtain the qualification to produce this specific steel grade in accordance with applicable international naval standards. This includes fulfilling the technical requirements of the WIWeB and the classification society DNV, as well as complying with the construction regulations 1050 issued by the Federal Office of Defense Technology and Procurement for ships of the German Navy.</p><p><em>&#8220;Valbruna ASW Inc. is proud to contribute its core expertise in stainless steel melting and processing, as well as metallurgical engineering, to this vital Canadian program, thereby playing its part in strengthening national supply chains and developing talent,&#8221;</em> said Tiziano Briozzo, General Manager at Valbruna ASW. <em>&#8220;We are confident that by signing this Memorandum of Understanding, we can expand our trusted partnership with TKMS from the European to the global level, leveraging our combined expertise and collaborative progress for the benefit of the CPSP. Furthermore, we are actively working to deepen our collaboration in submarine steel production, with the goal of establishing this capacity in Canada for the long term.&#8221;</em></p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>About Valbruna ASW</h4><p>Valbruna ASW Inc. is a leading specialty steel manufacturer in Welland, Ontario, with a history dating back to 1918. Today, the plant is the only steel mill in Canada capable of producing stainless steel and nickel alloys with improved machinability, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance, offering a unique combination of manufacturing capabilities for carbon steel, stainless steel, and specialty steels. Since 2019, Valbruna ASW has been part of the Italian Valbruna Group, a market leader in the production of long products made from stainless and specialty steels. Annual production of 300,000 tons is vertically integrated, from scrap to distribution, across four production facilities and a global sales network of 43 offices, employing 2,842 people. For more information, visit: www.valbrunaasw.ca</p><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: This is seperate of TKMS agreement with Finkl Steel. Valbruna was actually my go-to for a partner for a long time because they actually have the facilities and capacity to produce at least some Amanox steel. I was surprised they were left out, but behold! They make a surprise appearance at the last moment.</strong></p><p><strong>This is pretty significant. Not only is TKMS commiting to supporting Valbruna, but they're actually taking the step of contracting them to provide an initial batch to try and fast-track their WIWeB certification. You don't just do that out of good will. You not only have to be confident that they can deliver already, but also pretty damn confident that you're gonna win.</strong></p><p><strong>Building out this kind of supply chain is difficult. Building out a supply chain for 1.3964 especially, a kind of steel in the quality and quantity demanded of submarine construction, especially modules, which is something we just don't really do here was always going to be a major challenge for TKMS.</strong></p><p><strong>That doesnt mean they've solved it, but this is a significant move to make before you even know if youre the preferred supplier, let alone a proper contract. It's a move that tells me TKMS is already looking past the competition.</strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Royal Canadian Navy welcomes new Commander]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release + Noah Note]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/royal-canadian-navy-welcomes-new</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/royal-canadian-navy-welcomes-new</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 18:04:30 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!IjTp!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0f859b40-70b8-4f19-95f2-b262e12d53d3_1080x1080.jpeg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/0f859b40-70b8-4f19-95f2-b262e12d53d3_1080x1080.jpeg&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/jpeg&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/0f859b40-70b8-4f19-95f2-b262e12d53d3_1080x1080.jpeg&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><p><strong>June 16, 2026 &#8211; Hamilton, Ontario &#8211; National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces</strong></p><p>Vice-Admiral Dan Charlebois assumed command of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) from Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee this morning during a formal change of command ceremony, presided over by General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, at His Majesty&#8217;s Canadian Ship Star in Hamilton, Ontario.</p><p>The RCN is Canada&#8217;s fighting force at sea. It protects Canadians and Canada&#8217;s sovereignty, supports the secure maritime trade that underpins our economy, and stands ready to respond in times of crisis at home and abroad. As the RCN continues to adapt to a changing world, this change of command marks the transition of leadership for a force that serves Canadians every day.</p><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quotes</h4><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>&#8220;Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee has led the Royal Canadian Navy through a period of significant transformation with determination and an unwavering commitment to the people of our Navy&#8212;sailors and civilians alike. I thank him for his leadership and for his efforts to strengthen readiness and prepare the institution for the challenges ahead. As Vice-Admiral Dan Charlebois assumes command, he brings the experience, character, and commitment required to lead our Navy into its next chapter. I am confident that, under his leadership, the Royal Canadian Navy will continue to deliver operational excellence at home and abroad, advance modernization, and serve Canadians with pride well into the future.&#8221;</em></p><p><em>General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff</em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>&#8220;To lead as Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy has been a true honour and privilege. I have been inspired daily by the skill, grit, and ingenuity of our regular and reserve sailors and the wider Navy team whether in uniform or out, who deliver results for Canadians at home and abroad. I particularly thank the families and loved ones whose support makes our service possible. I am proud of how much we have achieved over the past four years, and grateful to have served alongside the remarkable people who delivered those results. While we have made a lot of progress, there is still a lot of difficult work to be done, and I can&#8217;t imagine anyone better to lead those efforts than Vice-Admiral Dan Charlebois.&#8221;</em></p><p><em>Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Outgoing Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy </em></p></div><div class="callout-block" data-callout="true"><p><em>&#8220;I am humbled and honoured to assume the watch as Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. Our sailors, together with our civilians and the families who support them, are the foundation of everything we do. I&#8217;m grateful for Vice-Admiral Topshee&#8217;s leadership and for the momentum built on his watch, and I look forward to working with the One Navy Team to strengthen our culture, support our people, sustain readiness today, and continue delivering the Navy Canada needs. I will strive to be worthy of the trust placed in me, and to lead with transparency, professionalism, and respect.&#8221;</em></p><p><em>Vice-Admiral Dan Charlebois, Incoming Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy</em> </p></div><p></p><div><hr></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Quick facts</h4><ul><li><p>Vice-Admiral Charlebois assumes Command as the 39th Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. He has served in a variety of command and staff roles throughout his career, most recently serving as the RCN&#8217;s Deputy Commander. </p><p></p></li><li><p>After four years as RCN Commander, as part of his distinguished 36-year naval career, Vice-Admiral Topshee will assume the position of Vice Chief of the Defence Staff during a separate ceremony planned for later this summer.</p><p></p></li><li><p>There are approximately 13,000 full- and part-time military members and about 3,700 civilians in the RCN, stationed across Canada and deployed around the world.</p><p></p></li><li><p>The RCN and its sailors represent the Government of Canada across the globe. They are deployed internationally and domestically, making significant contributions to operations with our allies and trusted international partners. </p></li></ul><p></p><div><hr></div><p><strong>Noah Note: Again an end of an era. Vice-Admiral Topshee has had quite the journey in the Navy. A MARS officer by trade, his operational track record includes his 2009 command of the destroyer HMCS Algonquin, where he led Maritime Forces Pacific's flagship through the 2010 Vancouver Olympics security mandate and a sustained western Pacific deployment. </strong></p><p><strong>In 2011, he deployed downrange to Kabul for a year to serve as the NATO Director of Afghan National Police Training Operations. Shortly after, he orchestrated the massive multinational air and naval movements for RIMPAC 2012. Serving as the Director of Operations, a massive logistical feat that earned him the Meritorious Service Medal. </strong></p><p><strong>Before taking the helm of the Navy in 2022, Topshee rounded out his strategic portfolio by commanding Canada's largest military base at CFB Halifax for three years, shaping continental defense policy at NORAD and USNORTHCOM headquarters in Colorado as Deputy Director of the Strategy, Policy, and Plans Directorate before moving to the role of commander of Canadian Fleet Pacific, Maritime Forces Pacific, and Joint Task Force Pacific.  </strong></p><p><strong>At just over four years, Vice-Admiral Topshee is the longest-serving CRCN in over sixty years, having just passed Vice-Admiral Rayner by about six weeks, and coming just a few months short of Vice-Admiral DeWolf. That alone is a massive accomplishment that I hope doesn't go unnoticed by many.</strong></p><p><strong>In that time the Vice-Admiral has led on the River-class Destroyer through its crititcal design stage, up to it's Keel Laying. He has led on the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project, arguably one of the greatest feats of Canadian Defence Procurement in decades. He has set the stage for the next phase of the NSS through things like the Continental Defence Corvette, Arctic Mobile Base, and FASST-V.</strong></p><p><strong>He championed the Naval Experience Program, one of the CAFs most successful recruitment initatives in memory, and has managed to further set the stage for the recapitalization of the RCN recruitment and training ecosystem. He has overseen the reorganization of trades in the RCN and the launch of the Advanced Naval Capabilities Unit.</strong></p><p><strong>From the farthest we've gone above and below, from pole to pole. From HORIZON to AMARNA, NANOOK-TAKUNIQ to NEON. He has led through the most significant recapitalization and expansion of the Royal Canadian Navy at home and abroad since the 1950s. I don't think anyone can deny that.</strong></p><p><strong>The vision of the modern Royal Canadian Navy has run through him. It is, at the end of the day, his vision that we see in many of the projects and concepts today. Perhaps we might have seen them without him, but his voice and his fighting for it has been what many will say has pushed it forward from concept to a proper vision.</strong></p><p><strong>Thirty, forty years from now the navy we have will be the one created under his vision. It will undoubtedly be built off his spirit. That is something very few I feel can ever say about their times in such roles. </strong></p><p><strong>For many the Vice-Admiral represents the vision of what a leader should be. Engaging, outspoken, passionate, and out there. Let there be no better example than myself, someone who had no reason to be given the time and day, who the Vice-Admiral even before much of our audience knew us, took the time to sit and engage with. That is something I will always hold close to my heart and will forever be grateful for. </strong></p><p><strong>I will say if you can ever speak to the Vice-Admiral, make it a point to give him toom to speak history. He is undoubtedly a wonderful storyteller, someone I could listen speak history for hours on. For many, that outspoken, passionate nature is why they're excited to see him in this role. </strong></p><p><strong>He is someone who undoubtedly has had a taste of the CAF far and wide, and I have no doubt he will fulfill the role of VCDS excellently. I am very excited to see what he does in this role, and to now CRCN Charlebois, I welcome you to your new role.</strong></p><p><strong>We here at TNSR congratulate both of you on your new roles, and wish you joy in todays celebrations. </strong></p>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ukraine and Canada are working to strengthen air defense and support the production of Ukrainian drones]]></title><description><![CDATA[Press Release]]></description><link>https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/ukraine-and-canada-are-working-to</link><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.truenorthstrategicreview.ca/p/ukraine-and-canada-are-working-to</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[Noah]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 17:11:04 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!-zGa!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F1e6a4d44-1f73-4760-923f-918a0f844e75_800x450.webp" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/webp&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/1e6a4d44-1f73-4760-923f-918a0f844e75_800x450.webp&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/webp&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/1e6a4d44-1f73-4760-923f-918a0f844e75_800x450.webp&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><h5>Ukraine coordinates with Canada to support defense priorities. The focus is on air defense missiles, Ukrainian drones, and long-range ammunition. This was discussed during a conversation between Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Canadian Minister of National Defense David McGinty.</h5><p></p><div><hr></div><h4>AIM-9 missiles for F-16</h4><p>Mykhailo Fedorov thanked Canada for the AIM-9 missiles that Ukraine received for its F-16 fighters. This is the result of Canada's work with the logistical support of Belgium. Such missiles strengthen Ukrainian aviation and help shoot down Russian cruise missiles.</p><p>Ukraine is grateful to Canada and Belgium for practical assistance in time for a possible next attack. </p><p></p><h4>PURL and PAC-3 are critical for ballistic defense</h4><p>Mykhailo Fedorov informed the Canadian side about the implementation of Ukraine's AIR-LAND-ECONOMY defense strategy and the current needs of the Defense Forces.</p><p>An important area is air defense. Ballistic missiles remain one of the main challenges for Ukraine, so the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism and new contributions from partners are critically important.</p><p>The Ukrainian side has also appealed to Canada for support in the purchase of PAC-3 missiles through the JUMPSTART mechanism. This is currently one of the key areas for strengthening defense against air threats. </p><p></p><h4>Ukrainian drones for the front</h4><p>The parties discussed the importance of purchasing Ukrainian drones for the needs of the front.</p><p>Mykhailo Fedorov called on Canada to support Ukrainian production through the "Danish model" and other mechanisms. This allows resources to be directed to solutions that have already proven effective in combat conditions.</p><p>Ukraine and Canada also already have joint industrial projects that could strengthen both countries.</p><p></p><h4>Supply of pickup trucks and long-range missiles</h4><p>Separately, the parties examined the possibility of supplying a large number of diesel pickup trucks for the Defense Forces. </p><p>They also discussed the importance of long-range artillery shells and the possibility of directing funds to the Czech Initiative.</p><p></p><div class="image-gallery-embed" data-attrs="{&quot;gallery&quot;:{&quot;images&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/webp&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2e741a0e-f288-4886-b3a8-fec75630d034_800x450.webp&quot;}],&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;staticGalleryImage&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;image/webp&quot;,&quot;src&quot;:&quot;https://substack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com/public/images/2e741a0e-f288-4886-b3a8-fec75630d034_800x450.webp&quot;}},&quot;isEditorNode&quot;:true}"></div><h4>Canadian aid that makes an impact on the battlefield</h4><p>Ukraine has received an important signal that Canada is ready to assist with critical Ukrainian defense priorities. It is important for Ukraine that partners' resources are directed to quality assistance that has a real impact on the battlefield.</p><p>Mykhailo Fedorov thanked Canada for its leadership, willingness to develop cooperation, and consistent support for Ukraine.</p>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>