Advancing Defence Drones starts at MI

Marine Institute Selected as Approved Supplier Under Canada’s Defence Drone Initiative

Monday, September 21, 2026 By Jodi Cooke

The Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland (MI) was selected as an approved supplier under Canada's Defence Drone Initiative (DDI), recognizing the institute's expertise in testing, evaluation and training through Stream 4 of the program.

Launched by the Government of Canada in July 2026, the DDI aims to accelerate development, testing and production of Canadian uncrewed and autonomous systems, strengthening sovereign capabilities for the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Coast Guard.

This qualification establishes MI as an eligible marketplace competitor based on its advanced training facilities, applied research expertise, simulation capabilities, and access to demanding real-world operating environments. With decades of experience serving industry, government, and defence clients, MI is well equipped to support Canada's emerging drone capabilities.

Bolstering Canada’s defence ecosystem

“Our success in securing this supply arrangement is a testament to the value proposition The Launch provides Memorial University and Canada’s entire defence ecosystem,” said Dr. Paul Brett, Deputy Provost (Marine Institute) & Executive Director (Professional and Continuing Education) (Interim). “The Marine Institute is Canada’s first and only centre with these capabilities, so it is uniquely positioned to support the development and testing of next-generation autonomous systems.”

“This announcement is a strong endorsement of the Marine Institute’s longstanding reputation for excellence in applied research, innovation and workforce development,” noted Dr. Janet Morrison, President (Memorial University). “We are proud to contribute our expertise, facilities and partnerships to an initiative that strengthens Canadian innovation, enhances sovereign capabilities and creates new opportunities for knowledge, research and economic growth.”

Engaging MI’s world class facilities and experts

Coordinated with MI's Centre for Applied Ocean Technology (CTec), Stream 4 activities will be delivered through The Launch in Holyrood, N.L. The Launch provides a unique combination of real-world marine operating environments, specialized infrastructure, vessels and technical expertise to test, integrate and validate uncrewed systems from prototype through operational demonstrations.

“Being an approved supplier under Stream 4 of Canada’s DDI will provide direct access to Memorial University’s specialized expertise, research capabilities, and testing facilities to help develop, evaluate, and advance next-generation uncrewed and autonomous systems for Canada’s defence needs,” said Kelley Santos, Director, Centre for Applied Ocean Technology.

The designation reflects the growing recognition of MI's expertise and its capacity to support strategic initiatives of national importance.