The Canadian Armed Forces recently conducted a comprehensive evaluation of nearly two dozen drone manufacturers at a remote location near Ottawa. This evaluation, named RED COBALT Uncrewed Systems Accelerator 2026, allowed military personnel to test various aerial, ground, and maritime drones, along with long-range precision strike systems. Lieutenant-General Darcy Molstad, overseeing the military’s joint forces command, highlighted the importance of exploring partnerships with companies that can swiftly adapt to evolving technologies.
Twenty companies, predominantly Canadian, participated in the demonstration held in Killaloe, Hagarty, and Richards, Ontario. Criteria for selection included Canadian ownership or partnerships, aligning with the federal government’s defense industrial strategy. While Canadian suppliers are innovative, much of the advanced drone technology and experience is concentrated in Ukraine and Eastern Europe.
During an interview, Molstad expressed confidence in Canadian companies’ ability to meet military requirements and keep pace with technological advancements in drone systems. The military’s specific focus lies on acquiring aerial reconnaissance and surveillance drones, ground drones for maneuvering through complex terrains, and maritime platforms for surface and subsurface warfare operations. Additionally, they are exploring precision deep-strike capability, similar to tactics employed by Ukraine against Russian targets.
The Canadian military has been relatively slow in adopting dedicated drone capabilities, despite their increasing significance on the battlefield over the past two decades. The recent procurement of MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from General Atomics and Teal 2 micro drones for surveillance reflects a shift towards bolstering drone capabilities. To further enhance research and development in this area, the government announced the establishment of a $30-million military drone facility in Mirabel, Quebec.
The event showcased the military’s commitment to integrating advanced drone technologies and fostering partnerships with innovative companies to enhance national defense capabilities.