Towards a Space-Independent Canada: GALAXIA’s Vision for Defense and Commercial Leadership
Ottawa, Canada
29/10/2024
GALAXIA Mission Systems, a Canadian leader in intelligent satellite technology, announced its commitment to building a resilient, space-independent Canada with robust defense capabilities. Speaking in Ottawa before the House Standing Committee on National Defence, Arad Gharagozli, founder and CEO of GALAXIA, underscored the critical need for a responsive Canadian space strategy that addresses the nation’s defense and economic growth requirements.
“At GALAXIA, we are developing advanced space intelligence platforms designed to serve both defense and commercial sectors, enabling real-time data processing and autonomous monitoring from orbit. Our goal is to bridge the gap between current national security needs and space-based solutions,” said Gharagozli.
Space technologies provide essential services to Canada’s defense operations, enabling critical functions such as intelligence gathering, secure communication, and precision navigation. “Traditional, long-cycle space missions are not meeting the rapidly evolving needs of defense,” Gharagozli added. “To remain competitive, Canada must adopt agile, responsive space capabilities that allow us to deploy solutions swiftly in response to emerging security needs.”
Gharagozli emphasized the role of NewSpace companies in addressing these challenges, noting that smaller, agile businesses can deliver innovative solutions faster and more affordably than traditional players. By aligning with the principles of the U.S. Space Priorities Framework, Canada can strengthen national defense, protect space assets, and foster public-private collaboration to drive innovation.
The CEO called for a reform of the current defense procurement process, highlighting the need for streamlined policies that support NewSpace companies as prime contractors, simplify contract processes, and boost long-term innovation. “Seamless public-private partnerships will allow the private sector to engage with government projects, leading to a dynamic, future-ready Canadian space industry.”
Gharagozli also praised the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) for its leadership in supporting innovative space solutions, particularly in early-stage R&D. Expanding CSA’s role to support dual-use capabilities will ensure Canada remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global space landscape.
With initiatives like the National Space Council and the 3 Canadian Space Division, Canada has taken steps toward space independence. However, Gharagozli stressed the importance of accelerated policy reform to unlock the full potential of Canadian talent and technology, stating, “The day we build a space-independent Canada that maximizes our domestic expertise and resources, Canada will become a global leader with unmatched defense and commercial capabilities extending far beyond our borders.”
About GALAXIA Mission Systems
Founded in 2020, GALAXIA Mission Systems is a Canadian manufacturer of intelligent satellites headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia. GALAXIA’s satellites blend artificial intelligence with real-time data processing, providing actionable insights for defense and commercial applications. By delivering advanced space solutions, GALAXIA is helping to redefine space intelligence and establish Canada as a leader in space innovation.
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www.gx.space
