Canada has selected Telesat to provide secure satellite communications for the Canadian Armed Forces through a 2.3-billion Canadian dollar contract awarded under the Enhanced Satellite Communications Project – Polar program. The 15-year agreement includes Military Ka-band connectivity beginning in 2028, with options that could increase the contract value to 2.7 billion Canadian dollars. The award also expands Telesat’s planned Lightspeed low Earth orbit satellite constellation from 156 to 225 satellites. The additional 69 satellites will support secure communications across Canada’s Arctic between 65 and 90 degrees north, ensuring resilient and low-latency connectivity for military operations. Manufactured by MDA Space and launched aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets, the expanded constellation will also enhance commercial communications while improving interoperability with NATO allies and partner nations. Separate contracts will cover user terminals, training, and supporting ground infrastructure.
