Reflecting on Canada’s evolving role in space at SpaceBound 2025

January 19, 2026 - Royal Canadian Air Force

Estimated read time – 2:15

Samora Brunia, Barthelemy, 3 Canadian Space Division

At SpaceBound 2025, Brigadier-General (BGen) Chris Horner discussed how space is critical to Canada’s sovereignty, security, and prosperity, emphasizing the importance of assured access and a coordinated national approach to space capability.

Speaking with Aaron Shull, General Counsel at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, BGen Horner described space as being no longer confined to exploration, but as critical infrastructure supporting everyday life across the country for Canadians. From financial systems, communications, navigation and environmental monitoring and defence operations; Canada’s reliance on space-enabled services continues to gain importance.

The BGen noted nearly 20% of Canada’s economy depends on space systems and highlighted the national implications of disrupted access, stressing resilience in the space domain is vital to maintaining national autonomy and operational continuity.

The discussion focused on sovereign launch capability for Canada, and while currently relying on international partners to place satellites into orbit, BGen explained that developing a domestic launch capacity would strengthen strategic flexibility and reduce dependence in times of uncertainty. He compared the potential impact of such capability to past nation-building efforts that strengthened national unity and infrastructure.“Access and assured access to space are a requirement of a sovereign, independent nation,” said BGen Horner.“If we want to continue connecting Canadians, protecting our environment, and defending our interests, we need to be able to do that from our own soil”.

Dual-use space systems, serving both civilian and military purposes, were also explored. This includes things such as wildfire monitoring, Arctic observation and satellite communications that support emergency responders, environmental protection and operational planning for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). These capabilities, while benefiting Canadians broadly, contribute directly to national defence readiness.

Canada’s Arctic was also discussed. The BGen outlined how space-enabled surveillance and communication systems support northern situational awareness, community connectivity and sovereignty in a region receiving increasing global attention. He emphasized the need for sustained investment and collaboration to ensure Canada remains prepared for evolving threats and environmental changes.

BGen Horner concluded by highlighting the rapid pace of change in the space domain and the need for continuous adaptation across the government and the Defence Team. He encouraged ongoing reflection on whether Canada is fast enough to meet future operational demands and protect its interests.

For 3 Canadian Space Division, the discussion reinforced its mandate to deliver space warfighting expertise and integrate space effects across joint and combined operations. As space continues to shape the operational environment, the Division remains focused on ensuring the CAF maintains freedom of maneuver and decisive advantage in an increasingly contested and complex domain.

SpaceBound hosted annually by Space Canada featuring networking with industry leaders discussing key topics and trends for strengthening the space sector.