Atlantic Firms Show Strength at DEFSEC Atlantic 2025
News release
Showcasing Canada’s defence industry and expanding Atlantic firms’ reach in global markets
October 1, 2025 · Halifax, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Atlantic Canada’s aerospace and defence sector takes centre stage at DEFSEC Atlantic 2025 in Halifax this week, bringing together Canadian and international government and military decision-makers, NATO DIANA representatives, and leading global defence contractors to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and showcase the region’s contributions to national and global security. About 2,000 participants are attending this year’s conference.
DEFSEC Atlantic provides firms, researchers, and accelerators with direct access to domestic and international partners. Atlantic Canada has one of the strongest regional presences at DEFSEC Atlantic, highlighting regional expertise in advanced naval systems, AI-driven threat detection, cyber resilience, and training technologies.
The Government of Canada, through ACOA, helps Atlantic Canada’s aerospace and defence sector by leveraging Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy, helping regional firms navigate defence procurement, and supporting projects that expand production, strengthen advanced manufacturing, and develop new international markets. These efforts are strengthening Atlantic companies’ position in global supply chains while supporting good jobs and economic growth at home.
Quotes
“Atlantic Canadian companies are proving every day that they can compete with the best in the world. DEFSEC Atlantic is more than a trade show — it is a platform for our firms to showcase cutting-edge technologies, strengthen their position in global supply chains, and forge the partnerships that drive growth. As Canada invests in defence and security, Atlantic Canada is ready to lead, creating good jobs, fueling innovation, and ensuring the benefits are felt right here at home while enhancing our global impact.”
–The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Quick facts
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DEFSEC Atlantic 2025 takes place from September 30 to October 2 at the Halifax Convention Centre, bringing together approximately 2,000 participants at this year’s show solidifying it as Canada’s second-largest defence and security trade show.
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DEFSEC Atlantic is presented by the Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Association (ACADA) and its partner organization, the Nova Scotia International Air Show Association (NSIASA), with support from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
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Atlantic Canada is home to about 9,800 direct aerospace and defence jobs, representing 20% of national defence employment.
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The region represents more than 30% of Canada’s marine industry employment and is recognized for strengths in shipbuilding, aircraft maintenance, sonar and acoustic systems, ground vehicle solutions, training and simulation, and cyber resilience.
Associated links
Contacts
Media Relations
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Colin Stephenson
DEFSEC Atlantic
902-465-2725
colin@defsecatlantic.ca