Longueuil, Quebec – December 4, 2025 — The Government of Canada has announced a new investment to ensure continued, sovereign access to critical Earth-observation data supporting nationwide environmental monitoring, disaster response, and Arctic security.

Under the plan, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) will contract MDA Space to build, test, and launch an additional radar-imaging satellite for the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM). An initial $44.7 million has been awarded for procurement of specialized long-lead parts.

In parallel, CSA is advancing the development of a next-generation Earth observation system. As part of this effort, three Canadian companies — C-CORE, Kepler Communications, and MDA Space — have each received up to $747,000 to deliver concept studies over the next seven months. These studies will define mission architecture, technical requirements, and key technologies needed to shape Canada’s future satellite capabilities.

“Through these investments, we are strengthening Canada’s space sector and ensuring Canadians continue to benefit from the satellite data that supports essential everyday services,” said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. “We are equipping Canadian industry and governments with the tools to protect communities, support decision-making, and keep Canada secure.”

Quick Facts:

• The new contracts are part of a broader 15-year, CA$1.012 billion commitment announced by CSA in October 2023 to support Canada’s immediate and future satellite Earth observation needs.

• The RCM continues a 30-year legacy of Canadian Earth observation, delivering daily radar-based imagery of lands, waters, and northern regions — data relied upon by more than 10 federal departments.

• The replenishment satellite will help maintain uninterrupted access to Earth observation data, critical for national security, climate monitoring, disaster response, Arctic sovereignty, and community resilience.

Contact:
Canadian Space Agency — Media Relations
Telephone: 450-926-4370
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.asc-csa.gc.ca