In 2026, Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) is focused on one reality: innovation is now central to national defence. Global threats are evolving faster, are more complex, and are no longer constrained by geography. Science and technology are how Canada can keep pace.
North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) modernization science and technology (NMST) is strengthening Canada’s contribution to continental defence by advancing our ability to detect, deter and defend. Work in areas such as Arctic and polar over-the-horizon radar is extending warning times and improving awareness in regions of growing strategic importance.
As DRDC Assistant Deputy Minister Jaspinder Komal has noted:
“We live in a world where innovation is the battlefield. Gone are the days of geographic advantage provided by oceans that keep us safe from international threats. Research isn’t just abstract discovery—it’s defence. Every insight strengthens our CAF’s edge.”
Looking ahead, DRDC’s work through NMST is ensuring Canada is prepared for a security environment defined by speed, technology, and constant change.
Find out more: DRDC spotlight, December 2025: A new chapter for DRDC (DWAN) (Accessible only on the National Defence network).
I’m hardly any defence expert but pending a threat assessment by intruders perhaps the following would occur. Say western reaches, Alaska, US fighters deploy backstopped by CF18’s from Cold Lake. Western Canadian Arctic, our CF18’ backstopped by US Alaska, Eastern Canadian Arctic CF18’s from Bagotville, backstopped by USANG in the northeastern US.
Of course we have limited fighter numbers and older (although much updated) aircraft which are planned for replacement but not nearly soon enough.
Ok but my question remains. How would we follow up on any detection?