Drone surge: Scaling tactical Uncrewed Aerial Systems manufacturing for modern defence
Contests
Competition between innovators is the fuel we use to foster the best innovative solutions.
The challenge
The Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) seek innovative, low-cost, attritable Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) to address gaps in military readiness and industrial capacity. The aim is to accelerate the development of scalable, cost-effective UAS solutions that enhance operational effectiveness, improve interoperability, and strengthen Canada’s domestic industrial base.
For this challenge, “uncrewed aerial system” refers specifically to the first-person view drone air vehicle and its associated control unit.
What IDEaS provides
- A chance to pitch your Canadian-made innovation directly to military experts.
- Compete against other innovators for a chance to progress through the three Contest rounds.
- Round one: Submit a proposal – a chance to be awarded a $35,000 cash prize.
- Round two: Provide detailed plans for a scalable, low-cost UAS systems – a potential to receive funding up to $350,000.
- Round three: Demonstrate UAS prototype – eligible for additional funding up to $650,000.
What innovators bring
- Low-cost UAS solutions that are scalable and easy to manufacture.
- A relentless drive to meet the challenge, outpace the competition, and help us reimagine airpower.
Results
Round 1
The following innovators were selected for proposing innovative attritable UAS solutions and have been invited to Round 2 of the Contest: Design Submission.
Project titles appear in the language in which they were received.
| WebID | Project Title | Innovator | Amount | Stage |
|---|
The challenge
The Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces (DND/CAF) are seeking innovative, low-cost, attritable UAS to address critical gaps in military readiness and industrial capacity. The aim is to accelerate the development of scalable, cost-effective UAS solutions that:
- Enhance operational effectiveness;
- Improve interoperability; and,
- Strengthen Canada’s domestic industrial base.
The development of cost-effective, attritable UAS represents a transformative opportunity for Canada’s defence and security industry. By fostering innovation and enhancing domestic capabilities, this challenge will position Canada at the forefront of UAS technology while ensuring the protection of national sovereignty. DND/CAF are hosting this challenge to:
- Observe advancements in Canadian low-cost UAS capabilities relative to the current state of the art;
- Stimulate the growth of Canada’s domestic UAS industry and workforce;
- Identify supply chain patterns and vulnerabilities;
- Enhance Canadian capabilities for rapid UAS deployment and iteration; and,
- Increase DND/CAF familiarity of the design principles and features that drive UAS innovation at scale.