The Canadian Armed Forces pioneer breakthrough in space-based communications technology

November 28, 2024 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 2:00

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has reached a key milestone in updating its satellite-based communication technology. This advancement, called Initial Operational Capability (IOC), marks the CAF's progress toward providing secure, reliable global communication for military operations.

The project behind this upgrade, led by the Digital Services Group (DSG), is called the Tactical Narrowband Satellite Communications – Geosynchronous (TNS-GEO) Project. It aims to deliver a communication system that operates beyond-line-of-sight. In other words, communication over long distances that is not blocked by obstacles like mountains or buildings. This system is designed to operate globally, providing essential voice communication and low-data applications to CAF personnel at home and abroad – from near the Arctic to near Antarctica.

A key feature of the TNS-GEO Project has been the CAF’s collaboration with the United States, including use of the U.S. Department of Defense constellation, called the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS). The fact that Canada is the first U.S. ally to gain access to this advanced satellite network underscores the strong partnership between our two countries. This network allows CAF personnel to communicate securely and reliably in areas where traditional communication tools may not work.

On June 25, 2024, a test was conducted between Ottawa and Petawawa, Ontario, to confirm the system's readiness. The testing, which involved upgraded Canadian military radios, showed that the MUOS satellite network could provide independent, end-to-end communication. Following the successful test, the Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force officially recognized the TNS-GEO Project's IOC, making it ready for CAF operational use.

This project is a significant achievement for the CAF, ensuring they have the best tools to support military operations. Brigadier-General Justin Thibert, Director General Military Communications and Space Systems, has affirmed that this Canada-US partnership strengthens the ability of both countries to work together. It also enhances the capacity of our military personnel to operate in a pan-domain security environment.

This new satellite communication project reflects Canada’s commitment to defence innovation and collaboration with its allies, ensuring CAF personnel have the latest technology for successful operations.