As US relations fray, Canada gets serious about its own launch industry
Summary
Canada is working to build its own rocket launch industry to reduce dependence on the United States. The Canadian government recently awarded funding to three companies to develop small rockets, while one company, Canada Rocket Company, plans to build a medium-sized rocket that could launch by 2032.Key Facts
- Canada has traditionally relied on the U.S. for space launches and defense technology.
- The Canadian government granted about 8.33 million Canadian dollars to three companies to develop light-lift rockets.
- Canada Rocket Company is skipping small rockets and focusing on a medium-lift rocket called R-2.
- The R-2 rocket is designed to carry up to 12.5 metric tons to low-Earth orbit and aims for reusability.
- Canada’s government sees space launch capability as important for the country’s defense and sovereignty.
- There is potential for the Canadian government to invest up to half a billion Canadian dollars to support a national launch program.
- The shift is partly a reaction to tensions and tariffs imposed by the Trump administration between Canada and the U.S.
- The effort is part of a new Canadian Defense Industrial Strategy to strengthen technology and industry in key areas including space.
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