Ottawa — The Department of National Defence (DND) has unveiled five new Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) challenges, with funding of up to $6.75 million each. The calls highlight growing military concerns with resilience, autonomy, and operations in the North.

Space Networks and Timing Without GPS

Two challenges are aimed squarely at space and positioning. Gateway to the Stars seeks R&D solutions for hybrid space networks in low Earth orbit, creating secure communications gateways for military use, especially in Northern regions.

Time Without Limits focuses on tactical-grade clocks that can operate in GPS-denied environments. Precise timekeeping is critical for navigation and communications, and the goal is to produce compact, ultra-precise devices that work in Arctic conditions.

Controlling the Spectrum

With Code Meets Combat, DND is calling for next-generation electromagnetic spectrum management tools to support offensive electronic warfare operations. The challenge is to plan precision strikes in the spectrum without causing “fratricide”—the accidental disruption of friendly signals.

Quantum Radar Synchronization

Another frontier is radar. Beyond GPS asks for quantum optics solutions to synchronize widely separated radars in a multistatic system. The aim is to improve detection and tracking without relying on vulnerable GPS signals—a rare public push into quantum-enabled defence technologies.

Hydrogen for Military Platforms

The fifth challenge, Powering the Future, targets solid-state hydrogen storage for military ground vehicles. By finding safe, durable, and lightweight storage methods, the army hopes to cut reliance on fossil fuels while enabling field refueling in harsh conditions.

Strategic Direction

Taken together, the challenges point to a clear defence agenda: ensuring Canadian forces can operate when GPS is denied, when spectrum is contested, and when energy supply is constrained. Space resilience, quantum systems, and clean energy are no longer peripheral—they are being pulled into the core of Canada’s military planning.

Proposals are due October 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. ET.

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