Waterloo, Ontario
Today, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, announced that the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is investing over $900 million, through Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy, in a long-term plan to support national prosperity and build a resilient domestic defence economy. Through the strategy, the Government of Canada is accelerating the development of defence and dual-use technologies to meet Canada's defence needs and build a globally competitive Canadian defence sector.
While at the University of Waterloo today, Minister McGuinty highlighted the direct funding to support the development and commercialization of quantum technologies.
Quantum technology will unlock future capabilities for the Canadian Armed Forces and create countless high-paying jobs here in Canada.
- Quantum computing will break codes, integrate with advanced AI and push material sciences further than what can be achieved using classical computers. Quantum computers will reshape the battlespace, putting compute power on the front lines with firepower by, among other things, using uncrewed systems and quantum encryption, simulating molecular interactions and complex systems, and rapidly developing advanced warfighting materials like batteries and warheads.
- Quantum communications will enable covert communications, anti-spoofing, and jamming-resistant and secure key distribution, making it safe to talk across battlefields and continents and through space-enabled communications.
- Quantum sensors can detect traces of electric and magnetic fields, gravitational variations, vibrations, or motions at levels unachieved by classical systems. Simply put, this means seeing the adversary before they see you.
The Government of Canada is pursuing a long-term, whole-of-government approach to strengthening the defence industrial base as a pillar of national security, economic resilience and prosperity.
