Canada has announced that it has established a major agreement with the US that will propel domestic space launch capabilities.
Announced by Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, the Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) will outline legal and technical safeguards to utilise US space launch technology, expertise and data for Canadian launches.
The partnership will help advance Canadian launch capabilities and support the growth of the commercial space industry. Both parties will now perform a final review before officially signing the agreement.
François-Philippe Champagne, Canadian Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, commented: “The Canadian space sector is driven by innovation and growth.
“Today’s announcement represents a major milestone in advancing an agreement that will pave the way for a thriving commercial space launch industry in Canada.
“This development not only enhances the sector’s diversity but also strengthens its global competitiveness, reinforcing Canada’s position as a leader in space exploration and technology.”
Boosting Canadian space launch capabilities
The TSA creates a framework to protect sensitive technologies and intellectual property, including launch vehicles and satellites, enabling secure collaboration on space-related projects.
This agreement enhances the strategic partnership between Canada and the United States and fosters growth in Canada’s commercial space sector by permitting the launch of US technology from Canadian soil.
Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said: “Canada’s vibrant and growing commercial space launch industry relies on its ability to collaborate across borders.
“The conclusion of negotiations between Canada and the United States means that we are one step closer to finalising this agreement, which, when in force, will position our country to be a global leader in commercial space launch.”
Implications for Spaceport Nova Scotia
Maritime Launch, the company developing the first commercial-scale spaceport in Canada, has hailed the agreement as a pivotal moment for the Canadian space sector.
The company embarked on the first suborbital launch from Scotia in 2023 and is planning the first orbital launch in early 2026.
Stephen Matier, President and CEO of Maritime Launch Services, added: “This is a major step forward for the growth of Canada’s commercial space industry.
“As we finalise the construction of Spaceport Nova Scotia, we will ensure our spaceport meets the compliance requirements and all of the unique needs of our launch vehicle clients based in the US and their global satellite customer base.
“We look forward to welcoming our American clients to Nova Scotia in the coming months as we prepare for Canada’s first orbital launch from Spaceport Nova Scotia in 2026”.
