PacifiCan invests $13.8 million to advance defence innovation in AI and aerospace in British Columbia
March 31, 2026 – North Saanich, British Columbia
In today’s rapidly changing world, Canada is making major investments to protect our sovereignty, strengthen security and create prosperity. Last week, Canada confirmed it has achieved the NATO 2% defence expenditure target, the largest year-over-year increase in defence spending in generations. PacifiCan is playing a key role in that effort by investing in world-class researchers and innovators in B.C. to advance defence technologies that protect Canada.
Today, Will Greaves, Member of Parliament for Victoria, on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), announced an investment of over $13.8 million in five B.C. projects through the Regional Defence Investment Initiative. These investments advance cutting-edge technologies in artificial intelligence (AI) and aerospace – sectors where B.C. is a recognized leader.
This announcement was held at the University of Victoria’s (UVic) Centre for Aerospace Research, which is receiving a $4 million investment to establish a satellite ground station and expand testing facilities for the development and commercialization of aerospace and digital technologies. This shared infrastructure will allow businesses to test, validate, and deploy new technologies, driving innovation in B.C.’s defence sector.
A $1.4 million investment will see UVic’s Advanced Control and Intelligent Systems Lab develop an AI-powered drone system for autonomously mapping structures and terrain in high resolution. This innovative technology will provide critical support in both civilian and defence applications, like environmental monitoring, disaster response and surveillance.
Beyond the lab, B.C. companies are already deploying AI and aerospace technologies in real-world applications. As part of this announcement, PacifiCan is also investing:
- Over $3 million in Arcane Aerospace to develop next-generation satellite technology for in-orbit operations.
- Over $2.4 million in Atreides to commercialize an AI-enabled software platform that improves how unmanned systems gather, share, and analyze data across air, land, and water.
- Over $2.8 million in OSI Maritime Systems to improve the AI-augmented Collision Avoidance Decision Aid (CADA) software that keeps vessels safe in challenging conditions.
More details about the five projects announced today can be found in the backgrounder.
These investments support Canada’s strategy to build a strong and sovereign country by connecting local researchers and businesses to opportunities in global supply chains. They also build on defence announcements made by PacifiCan in February 2026, strengthening Canada’s security while creating good jobs and long-term economic opportunities for British Columbians.
New defence-related funding available
PacifiCan is accepting applications for the Regional Defence Investment Initiative until April 15, 2026. Small and medium-sized businesses with technologies with defence and dual-use applications are encouraged to apply and join the growing community of B.C. innovators strengthening Canada’s security. To learn more, visit PacifiCan’s website.