Commander of Canadian Joint Forces Command to host RED COBALT Uncrewed Systems Accelerator 2026

August 10, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Media are invited to attend RED COBALT Uncrewed Systems (UxS) Accelerator 2026, featuring live demonstrations and industry exhibits showcasing the latest drone and counter-drone innovations. The event will bring together Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) operators, Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel, public safety partners, and industry leaders to collaborate on advancing drone and counter-drone capabilities in support of future operations.

When: Wednesday, August 12, 2026, 9 am to 12 pm Eastern Time (ET)
Where: 7 Jack Chute Rd, Killaloe, Hagarty and Richards, Ontario K0J 2A0
What: RED COBALT Uncrewed Systems (UxS) Accelerator 2026 is a Canadian Joint Forces Command event hosted in partnership with Invest Ottawa and AREA X.O. The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, will deliver remarks during the event. Participants will test emerging technologies in realistic scenarios and share feedback to guide future military capabilities.

Notes to editor

To attend the event, media must register with the Department of National Defence Media Relations Office no later than August 11 at 12 pm ET.

Media are asked to arrive by 8 am ET and bring valid photo identification.

Media planning to use drones to capture photo or video footage must hold a valid Transport Canada Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) authorizing drone operations at an advertised event. Unauthorized drone operations will not be permitted on site.

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