Sensitive Technology List

On this page

• Purpose of the Sensitive Technology List
• 1. Advanced Digital Infrastructure Technology
• 2. Advanced Energy Technology
• 3. Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
• 4. Advanced Sensing and Surveillance
• 5. Advanced Weapons
• 6. Aerospace, Space and Satellite Technology
• 7. Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Technology
• 8. Human-Machine Integration
• 9. Life Science Technology
• 10. Quantum Science and Technology
• 11. Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Purpose of the Sensitive Technology List

Canada's Sensitive Technology List (STL) identifies eleven broad technology areas that the Government of Canada considers to be sensitive. The technology areas in this list capture key areas with national security implications. The following working definition of sensitive technology was used to establish the STL:

Technologies (including intangible technology/know-how) that are emerging or have novel applications or capabilities, and those that can uplift adversarial advantage, the transfer of which could cause injury to Canada's national security and defence through:

• Canadian or allied military degradation or enhancement of adversarial military capability (i.e. dual-use, or having both civilian/commercial and military uses); and
• Canadian or allied intelligence degradation or enhancement of adversarial intelligence capability.

In addition to the technology itself being sensitive, consideration of the specific deployment scenario or application is also an important factor in determining whether the use of such technology could cause injury to Canada's national security and defence.

The list brings together a wide variety of both applied and fundamental (or basic) technologies at very different stages of readiness that are advancing at different paces. Many are mature and have begun implementation or commercialization efforts, while others are in their infancy or exploratory phase. Several technologies, such as artificial intelligence and quantum science and technology, are considered cross-cutting, as they underpin or enable the development or use of most of the listed technologies.

The existence of this list does not preclude the consideration of legacy technology that is still in use when the Government is considering national security risks associated with activities such as foreign direct investment.

The STL can be used to inform work on foreign investment reviews, export controls, and research security, as well as other activities to safeguard or safely promote Canadian innovation and development of sensitive technologies. It is intended to inform federal policies and programs, as well as the public and business community when they are considering business, investment and research activities.

1. Advanced Digital Infrastructure Technology

Advanced digital infrastructure technology refers to the devices, systems and technologies which compute, process, store, transmit and secure a growing amount of information and data that support an increasingly digital and data-driven world. This information and data is crucial for enabling complex and interconnected digital infrastructure, such as smart cities, as well as supporting existing critical infrastructure, such as power grids, utilities and financial systems. Technologies that are important for enabling or enhancing computing, digital infrastructure and network technology, but are featured and categorized elsewhere in this list, are advanced energy storage technologies (i.e. batteries), advanced materials, advanced sensors, and artificial intelligence and big data technology.

Advanced digital infrastructure technology, in turn, could enable many, if not most, technologies in this list, including advanced materials and manufacturing, advanced sensor and surveillance technology, robotics and autonomous systems, advanced weapons, human-machine integration, aerospace, space and satellite technology and many others.

Many digital infrastructure technologies could in turn be further enabled by other technologies on this list including artificial intelligence (see the Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Technology section) and quantum science and technology (see the Quantum Science and Technology section). More specifically, the latter could include quantum communications, computing and software, and each of these are addressed in more detail in the abovementioned section.

Advanced Communications Technology

This refers to technologies that enable fast, secure and reliable communication to facilitate growing demand for connectivity and faster processing and transmission of data and information, all of which are expected to be enabled with the gradual implementation of 5G and next-generation networks. These technologies could also enable communications in remote environments or adverse conditions (e.g. underwater or in space) where conventional methods are ineffective, or in spectrum-congested areas.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Adaptive/cognitive/intelligent radios

This refers to radios with varying degrees of control and flexibility for enabling improved performance. Adaptive radio can monitor its functions and adjust parameters for efficient performance, whereas cognitive radios are aware of their operating environment and can make behavioural decisions to meet radio objectives (e.g. detection avoidance), and intelligent radios use machine learning (ML), a type of artificial intelligence, to self-learn and adapt from experience to optimize performance. With growing demands being placed on spectrum, radios that can adapt to the spectrum environment and other factors will be increasingly important for providing assured communications.

Massive multiple input/multiple output (MIMO)

This refers to a wireless communications system that uses hundreds or thousands of transmitters and receivers to send and receive numerous data signals at the same time over the same radio channel. This creates improved spectral efficiency and throughput (i.e. data transmission rate), which enables greater speed and capacity for data transmission, making this technology a key enabler for 5G networks, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication and the growing amount of data being generated by smart sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and others in an increasingly interconnected digital infrastructure. Integrated on a chip optics and photonics integrated circuits are a promising technology exploiting laser sources and optics to replace electricity in standard electronic components. These technologies provide a wealth of advantages such as miniaturization, higher speed, low thermal effects and large integration capacity and will play a major role in future communication capabilities.

Millimeter-wave spectrum

This technology transmits signals on a previously unused part of the radio-frequency spectrum, namely at frequencies between 30 to 300 gigahertz, to avoid overcrowding and reduced bandwidth for mobile and wireless networks. This technology is used in 5G radio access networks or more generally 5G communications systems. However, millimeter waves do have limitations on range, due to atmospheric attenuation, and are further reduced by rain, buildings, and dense foliage.

Virtualized radio access networks (RAN)

These networks disaggregate remote radio units (RRU) and baseband units (BBU) via communication interfaces, and use software-based functions instead of hardware which can allow for flexible functionality and interoperability of components, as well as other benefits like lower costs of owning RAN networks and support for the deployment of 5G networks.

Optical/photonics communications

This refers to a typically wired communications system that uses light for rapid data processing and transmission through optical fibre cables. It has more bandwidth, faster transmission speeds, longer transmission range and no electromagnetic interference, compared to electrical data transmission. However, free-space optical communications transmits data in a wireless manner using light rather than the radio spectrum, and can communicate large amounts of data traffic between satellites. This technology could enable improved communications in space, especially between spacecraft.

Next-generation network technology

This refers to the next generation of network technology that will enable the fifth and future generations (5G+) of communications networks. 5G networks will use high frequency spectrums to enable significantly faster processing and transmission speeds for larger amounts of data, and edge computing will allow for lower latency, high bandwidth applications and greater device connectivity than previous generations. Network slicing will also allow 5G networks to be customized with “slices” of the network having different capabilities for different uses, such as running high bandwidth applications, connecting many IoT devices or providing a low latency connection for critical infrastructure or autonomous vehicles. Next-generation network technology is expected to provide better coverage, use less energy and could be more cost-effective, as well as secure, by using new technologies such as network slicing, cloud edge computing, waveform design and others. Ongoing advancements in networking can enable integrated communication across air, land, space and sea using terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, as well as increased data speed and capacity for network traffic. This technology is also expected to pave the way for new AI- and big data-driven applications and services, and its massive data processing capabilities could enable both the Internet of Things (machine-to-machine communications) and the Internet of Everything , i.e. connect people, processes, data and things across a massive distributed network, which would underpin 'smart city' infrastructure and other digitally-enabled infrastructure.

Wideband high frequency (WBHF) communications

This technology builds on the current high frequency infrastructure to provide higher data rates over a longer (even beyond-line-of-sight) range and enable fast, reliable and secure communications. This technology is low-cost, easy-to-use, flexible and backward-compatible with older systems, allowing for an easy upgrade from legacy systems.

Advanced Computing Technology

This refers to hardware- or software-based computing systems with high computational power that enable the processing of complex calculations that are data- or compute-intensive. This technology improves the information processing efficiency of networks and computers, and could enable new capabilities by being integrated with other technologies, such as artificial intelligence and big data, advanced sensor and surveillance technology, robotics and autonomous systems, human-machine integration and many others.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Artificial intelligence (AI) chipsets

This refers to custom-designed chips meant to process large amounts of data and information that enable algorithms to perform calculations more efficiently, simultaneously and using less energy than general-purpose chips. AI chips have unique design features specialized for AI, which may make them more cost-effective to use for AI development and deployment. AI chipsets will improve the efficiency of AI technology from the hardware level. Types of AI chipsets can include graphics processing units (GPUs), which are typically used for “training”, the initial development and refining of AI algorithms, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which typically is used for the “inference” process, which applies “trained” AI algorithms to real-world data inputs and finally, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) that can be used for training or inference purposes. AI chipsets are related to neuromorphic computing, which mimics natural neural systems and functions in order to replicate its natural learning processes, energy-efficiency, robustness, and computational power. This entails using artificial neurons to create spiking, or 'event-based', and non-spiking neural networks that can process information at high speeds and complete complex tasks.

Computer vision

This refers to a field of AI that allows computers to see and extract meaning from the content of digital images such as photos and videos. Examples of computer vision techniques include image classification, object detection, depth perception, machine perception, semantic segmentation, and others that enable a number of real-life applications, such as helping self-driving cars detect obstacles on a road, assisting medical imaging devices with detecting abnormalities or injuries, or enabling augmented or mixed reality devices to detect objects in order to overlay virtual content on the physical world, among many others.

Context-aware computing

This refers to software innovations which anticipate the needs or desired outcome of a user by considering the situational or environmental context to provide relevant and usable information, features, or experiences.

Edge computing

This refers to decentralized computing and data collection, processing, and storage that is done at, or very close to, the source of the data, including on a sensor or device, which enables mobile computing and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and data acquisition for high data rate sources. Edge computing can improve latency, power usage, and security issues by enabling data to be handled locally. It also improves performance and speed by moving the computing functions closer to the user.

High performance computing

This refers to typically large-scale systems and the optimization of processors, interconnects, software, and techniques to solve difficult computational problems. High performance computing is often used to support research by performing calculations in a fraction of the time it would take a human or one computer to do it. As quantum computing (described in the Quantum Science and Technology section) matures, it is expected to play a role in the future of high performance computing.

Cryptography

This refers to methods and technologies that enable secure communications by transforming, transmitting or storing data in a secure format that can only be deciphered by the intended recipient.

As malicious cyber activities become increasingly common and sophisticated, and the arrival of general-purpose quantum computers – which are expected to break current encryption methods using significantly increasing processing power – draws nearer, transitioning to more complex and resistant cryptography to protect existing and future data and communications becomes increasingly urgent. Examples of emerging capabilities in cryptography that may replace or enhance current encryption methods include, but are not limited to biometric encryption, DNA-based encryption, post-quantum cryptography, homomorphic encryption and optical stealth encryption, among many others. The abovementioned and other types of advanced cryptography are expected to provide several benefits, such as resistance to quantum computers, analysis or use of encrypted data without the need for decryption, or non-digital encryption with stealthy data transmission, among others.

Cyber Security Technology

This refers to technologies that protect the integrity, confidentiality and availability of internet-connected systems, including their hardware, software, as well as data from unauthorized access or malicious activities.

In an increasingly digital and data-driven world where more devices and systems are being connected to the Internet, and there is a growing network of sensors collecting and sharing data with each other, ensuring every part of this intricate digital infrastructure is secure is critical. As emerging technologies like 5G, Internet of Things, robotics and autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence and big data become more integrated into all aspects of life, increased connectivity and complexity contribute to the creation of a large threat surface for possible exploitation by malicious actors, mitigated, to a large degree, by robust and resilient cyber security.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Cross domain solutions (CDS)

This refers to technologies that are used to protect air-gapped or isolated networks hosting classified or sensitive information. CDS operate as a controlled interface at a network boundary and apply a strict security policy on the network data that flows across this boundary. CDS protect classified and sensitive networks by controlling the flow of information and applying advanced filtering, such as content disarm and reconstruction. Their purpose is to maintain separation between sensitive networks, limit data leakage and defend against malicious cyber activities from connected networks.

Cyber defence tools

This refers to tools that detect and respond to cyber threats, including identifying those threats never seen before, isolating them before a system breach occurs, and continuously learning and evolving to respond to new threats. Some examples of how this technology could be used for improving cyber security include, but are not limited to, large-scale threat situational awareness, automated course of action evaluation, decoy defence generation and hyper-gaming evolution of cyber threats, among others. This technology could be enhanced by other technologies, such as AI or digital twins (explained in more detail in the Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Technology section) to more effectively detect and identify vulnerabilities in a system.

Moving target defence technology

This refers to technologies that enable greater defence against malicious cyber activities by constantly changing software at different levels of a system, thus making a dynamic threat surface. This creates uncertainty and complexity for threat actors, reduces the window of opportunity for malicious activity to occur, and increases the cost and effort required to carry it out.

Data Storage Technology

This refers to the methods or tools for storing data or information securely in a digital format. Given the enormous amounts of data being generated every day in an increasingly data-driven world, there is a growing demand for better and cheaper ways to store this information as data centres are expensive to set up and maintain, and also have a large carbon footprint.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

5D optical storage

This consists of using lasers to carve terabytes of data into quartz glass discs, with the ability to encode it in five dimensions, allowing for approximately 360 terabytes of data to be stored on a 5D disc the size of a CD. Given that the data is stored within the 5D disc (rather than on its surface like a CD), it is able to survive for billions of years, including through fires and solar flares, and is able to withstand temperatures of up to 1000 degrees Celsius.

DNA storage

This entails encoding DNA molecules with digital information to create artificial gene sequences that represent that information. This form of data storage requires little energy, has greater storage density and could potentially last much longer, with the ability to be stable for decades or centuries, far exceeding current data storage methods.

Single-molecule magnets

This enables the storage of large amounts of data by controlling how the magnetic field is applied to a specific class of molecules, the memory of which lasts long after the magnetic field is turned off. While it must be stored in extremely cold temperatures (approximately -213 degrees Celsius) to function, this technology could provide 100 times the data storage density of current hard disk drives and solid-state drives, and pave the way for economically viable molecular data storage technologies.

Distributed Ledger Technology

This refers to a digital ledger or database that tracks assets or records transactions in multiple locations at the same time, with no centralized or single point of control or storage.

With this technology, each party with access to the ledger can verify every transaction, which is recorded if consensus is obtained. There are several types of distributed ledger technology, including blockchain, hashgraph, Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) and holochain, which vary based on consensus mechanisms, level of decentralization, scalability and speed/efficiency, among other things. Benefits of distributed ledger technology include security, transparency, accuracy and efficiency for certain applications, which makes it useful for digital currency/financial transactions, digital (smart) contracts, digital identity and records management, digital voting, and other uses. Notably, digital currencies, such as central bank digital currencies (CBDC), are currently being introduced in many countries to provide a more secure and stable digital currency – when compared to existing cryptocurrencies – that is supported by monetary institutions, recognized across borders and banking systems, and facilitates faster, more efficient and seamless financial transactions at any time of day.

Microelectronics and Photonics Integrated Circuits

This is a domain encompassing the development and manufacturing of very small electronic designs on a substrate. Microelectronics incorporates semiconductor integrated circuits as well as encapsulation technologies with the goal of producing smaller and faster products.

Semiconductors are materials, usually made of silicon, that fall between an insulator and a conductor in terms of their ability to conduct electricity. Integrated circuits based on semiconductor materials have practical uses that include amplifying signals, switching and converting energy, and they are widely used across almost all industries because they are compact, reliable, energy-saving and cheap. Semiconductor devices are key elements in most electronic systems, notably in smartphones and computers. Additionally, advances in this technology have unique properties that allow them to process information significantly faster while using a fraction of the energy, and will enable developments in other areas, such as robotics and digital infrastructure technology.

As microelectronics reach the limit for integration, photonic components are making their way into this field. Based on optoelectronics, which exploit semiconductor properties to generate, detect and control light phenomena, photonics components open the way to increased capacity and speed. Instead of using electricity and conventional electronic components, photonic circuits exploit photons and optical components.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Memory-centric logic

This resolves bandwidth issues that create latency and require more energy in processing systems. By bringing memory closer or integrating it into processing tasks, the entire system can run faster, which may improve the performance of advanced applications like neural networks that require fast and efficient processing systems. Chips with memory centric logic, such as processing in memory (or PIM) chips, which have a processor integrated with random access memory (RAM) that enables faster processing and real-time applications, will be key to enabling other technologies.

Multi-chip module (MCM)

Multi-chip modules consist of multiple integrated circuits combined into one package that operate as a single component and can perform an entire function. MCMs enable improved performance and have a reduced size and weight compared to conventional single chip packages, enabling a device to be smaller and lighter.

Stacked memory on chip

This technology is also known as 'die-stacking technology' or a 'three-dimensional integrated circuit' (3DIC), and solves the problem of chips becoming physically too small to hold vast amounts of micro-processing capabilities. 3DIC start as co-designed 2D integrated circuits that are designed to stack together vertically, like a multitiered cake. Vertical electrical connections link the different layers while the assembly is glued together using various types of bonding techniques. This dense assembly increases storage and bandwidth capacity of memory chips, increases the density and performance of sensors arrays, and reduces power consumption and interface issues for both types of chips.

Systems-on-chip (SoC)

This refers to an integrated circuit – typically the size of a coin – that contains all components or “systems” of a computer or other electronic system. These components typically include a central processing unit, memory, input/output ports, and secondary storage. Because all functions are amalgamated on a single microchip, SoCs consume much less power and take up much less space than larger chips with equal functionality. SoCs can combine the functions of multiple electrical components in a compact manner. Photonic systems-on-a-chip integrates optical components such as laser, detectors and modulators to implement logical functions more conventionally done using electronic components.

2. Advanced Energy Technology

Advanced energy technology refers to technologies and processes that enable improved generation, storage and transmission of energy. Novel approaches for producing, storing and transmitting energy in an efficient and reliable manner have many useful applications, especially for operating in remote or adverse environments where power sources may not be readily available, but are required to support permanent or temporary infrastructure and power vehicles, equipment and devices. Advanced energy technologies could enable other technological advances in aerospace, space, robotics and autonomous systems, among others.

Advanced Energy Storage Technology

This refers to technologies that store energy, such as batteries, with new or enhanced properties, including improved energy density, compact size and low weight to enable portability, survivability in harsh conditions and the ability to recharge quickly, among other properties.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Fuel cells

This refers to electrochemical cells that produce electricity by converting the chemical energy of a fuel, such as hydrogen, and an oxidizing agent into electricity. While batteries degrade over time and require charging, fuel cells can typically provide power so long as they have a sustained supply of fuel and oxygen. Hydrogen, if produced via a carbon neutral process for use in fuel cells, can be a cleaner source of power than fossil fuels. Hydrogen fuel cells are also grid-independent making them useful as supplementary power sources for critical infrastructure such as data centres and hospitals.

Novel batteries

This broadly refers to batteries that are currently being developed to deliver enhanced properties, or address the shortcomings (such as safety and cycle life) of currently widely used lithium-ion batteries. These include, but are not limited to:

Biodegradable batteries

This refers to batteries which are made with organic materials that can break down or dissolve after a certain period of time or if exposed to a certain chemical, and could be a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly option for powering certain electronics, such as low-power Internet of Things devices or sensors;

Graphene aluminum-ion batteries

These batteries are an example of nanotechnology, can charge much faster, last longer without a decline in performance, don't overheat and are easier to recycle than lithium-ion batteries;

Lithium-air batteries

This refers to batteries which use ambient air at the cathode and thereby reduce battery mass, do not rely on transition metals (such as nickel and cobalt) and can theoretically provide higher energy density than current lithium-ion batteries;

Room-temperature all-liquid-metal batteries

These batteries could offer the benefits of both solid and liquid-state batteries, as well as increased flexibility, stability and energy-efficiency;

Solid-state batteries

This refers to batteries which consist of solid electrolytes that may allow them to have higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries, be more compact and less likely to spontaneously combust (a risk with lithium-ion batteries), and may enable faster charging than lithium-ion batteries; and

Structural batteries

This refers to batteries which use composite materials to enhance mechanical integrity, which can allow for the energy storage mechanism to be integrated into the structure of the battery itself, ultimately resulting in a reduction of overall weight.

Supercapacitors (or ultracapacitors)

This refers to technology which stores electrical energy at a higher capacity than conventional capacitors and are used in many electronic and electrical systems. Supercapacitors are able to charge and release energy quickly and at a higher power output than batteries. They are also more efficient, longer-lasting and require less maintenance than batteries, but have less energy storage capacity.

Advanced Nuclear Generation Technology

This refers to new reactors and technologies which are smaller in size than conventional nuclear reactors and are developed to be less capital intensive, therefore minimizing risks faced during construction. Currently, the majority of nuclear energy is Earth-based and consists of fission-based reactions, whereby uranium atoms are split into two lighter atoms in a self-sustaining reaction. Traditional nuclear reactors use the thermal energy from these fission reactions to produce steam, which, in turn can be used to generate electricity or provide process heat. However, developments in advanced nuclear technology provide safer, cheaper, and more efficient generation of greenhouse gas free electricity. Advanced reactor designs would, employ a simpler and more standardized design with passive/inherent safety features, offer a longer operating life, and have higher burn-up rates to use fuel more efficiently and reduce waste. This category also includes fusion reactors which are described below.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Nuclear fusion energy

This technology involves combining two or more light atoms to create a single, heavier atom and yielding significantly more energy than the fission-based reactions. Nuclear fusion could generate enough energy to meet growing demand, without producing any greenhouse gas emissions or, with some advancements, any dangerous and long-lasting nuclear waste relative to current fission technology.

Small modular reactors (SMRs)

This refers to compact and more-cost-effective nuclear reactors which employ passive/inherent safety features. They require minimal refueling and could be deployed as a single or multiple module plant. SMRs could be used to provide reliable power in places that are not connected to a larger national or regional grid, and where other renewables are not as sufficient or reliable. The deployment of small modular reactors would introduce alternative power generation and could enable a wide array of benefits to underserved and off-grid areas, such as water desalination and process heat.

Wireless Power Transfer Technology

This refers to technology that enables the transmission of electricity without using wire over extended distances that vary greatly and could be up to several kilometres. This could take the form of 'recharging zones' (analogous to Wi-Fi zones) that allow for electric devices, including vehicles, to be recharged within a large radius, as well as for recharging space-based objects, such as satellites. While, this technology notably exists, currently available applications are at very short distances and are used in consumer products like electric toothbrushes and smartphones. These current applications fall out of scope of the STL due to their widespread availability and use.

3. Advanced Materials and Manufacturing

Advanced materials refer to high-value products, components, or other materials with new or enhanced structural or functional properties. They provide important advantages, such as better performance, novel properties, multifunctionality and light weighting relative to conventional materials. They may rely on advanced manufacturing processes or novel approaches for their production.

Advanced manufacturing, also known as Industry 4.0, refers to the use of emerging or novel technologies, tools and processes to develop and manufacture advanced materials or components, as well as produce products in a more agile, flexible, and responsive manner by integrating advanced technologies across the value chain. This could include using specialized software, artificial intelligence, sensors (such as force and touch sensors), and high performance tools, among others, to facilitate process automation or closed-loop automated machining and create new materials or components.

Advanced materials and advanced manufacturing processes play a crucial role in enabling the development of other technologies, including many that are discussed in this list. For example, 3D printing using specialized, heat-resistant materials can support advancements in aerospace, space and hypersonic technology, while also reducing costs and increasing reliability. At the same time, advanced manufacturing is a combination of processes and, as such, uses a number of other technologies, such as artificial intelligence and industrial machinery (industrial automation, advanced robotics and additive manufacturing).

The sub-areas listed are not exhaustive as numerous advanced materials and manufacturing methods are being explored or in early development. Quantum materials, covered under the Quantum Science and Technology section, intersect with several of the technologies listed in this section.

Advanced Manufacturing

Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)

This refers to various processes in which solid three-dimensional objects are constructed using computer-aided-design (CAD) software to build an object, ranging from simple geometric shapes to parts for commercial airplanes. 3D printing could be used to accelerate the development through rapid prototyping of customized equipment, spare tools or novel shapes or objects that are stronger and lighter. There is also an increasing focus on developing approaches for multi-material additive manufacturing or volumetric additive manufacturing, especially of novel multi-material systems and composites for specific applications or parts, as well as additive manufacturing for repair and restoration.

Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing

This refers to the methods, equipment and processes related to the manufacturing of semiconductor devices. These techniques may include, but are not limited to, advancements in deposition, coating, lithography, etching, ionization/doping, packaging and other core and supporting processes, such as thermal management techniques. Recent technological advancements include developments in Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography which is an advanced method for fabricating intricate patterns on a substrate to produce a semiconductor device with extremely small features.

Critical Materials Manufacturing

This refers to the up- and mid-stream technologies necessary to extract, process, upgrade, and recycle/recover critical materials (e.g. rare earth elements (REEs), scandium, lithium, etc.) and establish and maintain secure domestic and allied supply chains. These materials are crucial to enabling advanced energy, transportation/aerospace and communications applications. More information about critical minerals can be found in Canada's Critical Minerals List.

Four-Dimensional (4D) Printing

This refers to the production and manufacture of 3D products using multifunctional or “smart” materials that are programmed to transform in response to external stimuli (e.g. heat, water, light, etc.) within a given amount of time. Depending on the type of material used, some 3D printing approaches can produce a 4D printed object, including stereolithography and inkjet printing, among others. Recent developments have also been made in creating reversible 4D printed objects, which can return to their original shape without human involvement.

Nano-Manufacturing

This refers to the production and manufacture of nanoscale materials, structures, devices and systems in a scaled-up, reliable and cost-effective manner. Due to the reduced footprint of materials made with nano-manufacturing techniques, this technology has the potential to enhance the miniaturization and advancement of electronics and computing in the future.

Two-Dimensional (2D) Materials Manufacturing

This refers to the large-scale production of 2D materials. Currently, the production and manufacture of 2D materials in large quantities and sizes is difficult as the materials have not been standardized (i.e. there are different types of graphene of varying grade, quality and properties), and the methods to obtain or produce them differ greatly, each with their own challenges or drawbacks. However, there remains strong potential for the methods and processes for 2D materials manufacturing to become standardized, scalable and cost-effective, most notably for graphene, as work is already being done to effectively commercialize it.

Advanced Materials

Additive Manufacturing Feedstock

This refers to filaments, powders, composite materials or suspensions that typically contain metal, polymer or ceramic materials. These feedstocks enable additive manufacturing, also referred to as 3D printing. Research into novel feedstocks can lead to manufactured parts with enhanced mechanical properties and other desired characteristics. Certain multifunctional or 'smart' materials used in 3D printing, such as shape memory polymers, shape memory alloys, hydrogels and others, can produce 4D printed objects.

Augmented Conventional Materials

This refers to conventional materials such as high strength steel or aluminum and magnesium alloys – products that are already widely used – which are augmented to have unconventional or extraordinary properties. Such properties would be accomplished through the development of chemistries and manufacturing processes. Examples of these properties could include improved durability or high temperature strength, corrosion resistance, flexibility, weldability, or reduced weight, among others. Advancements have already led to products like high strength aluminum that can rival or outperform conventional steel, and could offer new applications. Further, new product forms such as powders or multi-material systems with novel properties could be developed for unconventional means, offering increased strategic value.

Auxetic Materials

This refers to materials that have a negative Poisson's ratio, meaning that when stretched horizontally, they thicken or expand vertically (rather than thinning as most materials do when stretched), and do the opposite when compressed horizontally. These materials possess unique properties, such as energy-absorption, high rigidity, improved energy/impact absorption and resistance to fracture.

High-Entropy Materials

This refers to special materials, including high-entropy alloys, high-entropy oxides or other high-entropy compounds, that are comprised of several elements or components. High-entropy materials differ from others by the proportions of the constituent elements, and are the result of mixing multiple (usually 3-5) components in an equimolar or near-equimolar proportion. Depending on their composition, high-entropy materials can enhance fracture toughness, strength, conductivity, tunability, radiation and corrosion resistance, hardness and other desired properties.

Due to the breadth of the theoretically available combinations and their respective properties, these materials can be used in several industries including aerospace. Aerospace materials often demand high performances in relation to fatigue (cyclical stress), specific strength (a ratio between a material's yield strength and its density) and mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, therefore making high-entropy materials like high-entropy alloys an attractive future option. Additionally, high-entropy oxides are being considered for applications in energy production and storage, as well as thermal barrier coatings.

Metamaterials

This refers to structured materials that are not found or easily obtained in nature. Metamaterials often have unique interactions with electromagnetic radiation (i.e. light or microwaves) or sound waves.

Metamaterials have many possible applications, such as in technologies that use electromagnetic radiation, and can be used to improve antenna signals, act as an absorber (or cloaking device) to provide stealth capability, or enhance the sensitivity and resolution of sensors.

Multifunctional/Smart Materials

This refers to materials that can transform in response to external stimuli (e.g. heat, water, light, etc.) within a given amount of time. An example of a smart material is magnetorheological fluid used in shock absorbers for vehicles. The viscosity of this material changes with the magnetic field to which it is exposed and optimises its ability to dissipate the energy from the shock as it occurs. Other types of multifunctional materials include shape memory alloys, shape memory polymers and self-assembled materials, among others.

Nanomaterials

This refers to materials that have dimensions of less than 100 nanometers and exhibit certain properties or unique characteristics such as increased durability or self-repair. Nanomaterials have a large breadth of applications, common examples being use in manufacturing electronics, microchips, and sensors. Possible future uses could include detecting corrosion or a scratch on the surface of a vehicle, aircraft or ship, and “repairing” the damage without human intervention.

A subset of nanomaterials, nano-energetic materials are energetic materials synthesized and fabricated at the nano-level that have a small particle size and high surface area between particles, which enable faster or more efficient reaction pathways when exposed to other substances. Nano-energetic materials can be used for clean energy generation via technologies such as photocatalysis, photoelectrochemical processes, etc.

Superconducting Materials

This refers to materials that can transmit electricity with no resistance, ultimately eliminating power losses associated with electrical resistivity that normally occurs in conductors. Research is underway which could lead to novel materials that can achieve superconductivity at temperatures well above absolute zero. Traditionally, superconductivity has been achieved by manipulating a material's environmental condition, typically by reducing its temperature to a critical temperature below which the resistivity drops to zero. The resulting current that can be carried is therefore higher which can allow for a number of unusual phenomena, such as the creation of superconducting magnets like those used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray machines. Manufacturing of superconducting electronic circuits is one of the most promising approaches to implementing quantum computers.

Two-Dimensional (2D) Materials

This refers to materials with a thickness of roughly one atomic layer. One of the most well-known 2D materials, for which there are currently production/fabrication technologies, is graphene. It is two hundred times stronger than steel, lightweight, and flexible with exceptional thermal and electrical conductivity, and it has a growing number of applications in flexible electronics, protective coatings, and barrier films. Other 2D materials include silicene, germanene, stantene, metal chalcogenides and others, which are currently being researched with potential applications in sensors, miniaturized electronic devices, semiconductors and more.

4. Advanced Sensing and Surveillance

Advanced sensing and surveillance refers to a large array of advanced technologies that detect, measure or monitor physical, chemical, biological or environmental conditions and generate data or information about them. Advanced surveillance technologies, in particular, are used to monitor and observe the activities and communications of specific individuals or groups, but have also been used for mass surveillance with increased accuracy and scale. Artificial intelligence and advanced sensor technology are increasingly being applied to advanced surveillance technology to improve its accuracy and performance, although accuracy issues in biometric recognition technologies, namely facial recognition technology, remain due to data bias.

Advanced sensor technology has become ubiquitous, with sensors being a key enabling component for robotics, digital infrastructure technology, life science technology, space technology and advanced manufacturing, among many other areas. Advanced sensors are also increasingly being integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) devices to enable smart grids, intelligent transportation systems and smart homes, as part of larger wireless sensor networks that rapidly collect and analyze large amounts of data to deliver digital services. Lastly, advancements are being made in quantum sensing technology that would enable more precise and accurate measurements, which is covered in more detail in the Quantum Science and Technology section.

Advanced Biometric Recognition Technologies

This refers to technologies that identify individuals based on their distinctive physical identifiers (e.g. face, fingerprint or DNA) or behavioural identifiers (e.g. gait, keystroke pattern and voice).

Advanced biometric recognition technologies are used to either verify someone's identity by comparing it to a stored biometric reference (e.g. fingerprint scanners on smartphones), or to identify someone by comparing their biometric sample to a database with the biometric references of multiple people (e.g. comparing one fingerprint against all fingerprints in one or more databases). Applications for these technologies have been around for a while, and are used in non-sensitive consumer products like smartphones for user verification. However, they are becoming more advanced due to improving sensing capabilities, as well as integrating artificial intelligence to identify/verify an individual more quickly and accurately. It is possible that these technologies could be developed for non-routine tasks such as identification at a distance or in more challenging circumstances like at night time.

Advanced Radar Technologies

This refers to a system that uses radio waves to detect moving objects and measure their distance, speed and direction. Advancements in radar technology could enable improved detection and surveillance in different environments and over greater distances.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Active electronically-scanned arrays (AESA)

Also known as active phased array radar (APAR), this technology consists of an array of antennas with transmit/receive modules that beam radio waves that can be steered in different directions without changing the position of the antennas. It can also send multiple signals at different frequencies across a wide band at the same time that enables resistance to electronic jamming and makes it difficult to intercept over background noise.

Cognitive radar

This radar is able to perceive and learn in a given environment, extract relevant information about a target and its environment including its future behaviour, and autonomously adapt its radar sensors to achieve mission success.

High frequency skywave radar (or Over-The-Horizon radar)

This radar operates in the high frequency band and reflects radar signals using Earth's ionosphere to illuminate targets that are over, or beyond, the horizon, thus enabling a wider area of visibility.

Passive radar

This radar detects and tracks objects using existing signals (e.g. radio or cellphone signals) in the environment, and is low-cost, portable and undetectable.

Synthetic aperture radar

This radar actively emits a microwave signal (from either a satellite or an aircraft) to the surface of the Earth and records the microwave signal that reflects back, which provides high-resolution imaging of terrain. This technology works at long ranges at any time of day, regardless of cloud coverage, weather conditions or lack of sunlight.

Cross-Cueing Sensors

This refers to a system that enables multiple sensors to cue one another. It is a dynamic network where one sensor may be able to detect an area or object of interest and cue another sensor for more effective tracking or to seek additional information. Since sensors are typically tailored to detect a certain resolution or under specific conditions, cueing allows for more flexible capabilities. Cross-cueing can be used in satellites for data validation, objection tracking, enhanced reliability (i.e. in the event of a sensor failure) and earth observations.

Electric Field Sensors

This refers to sensors that detect variations in electric fields and use low amounts of power. They are useful for detecting power lines or lightning, as well as locating power grids or damaged components in the aftermath of a natural disaster.

Imaging and Optical Devices and Sensors

This refers to technology that can provide a visual depiction of the physical structure of an object beyond the typical capabilities of consumer grade imaging devices. Non-consumer devices typically make use of electromagnetic radiation beyond the visible spectrum and can make use of multi-spectral techniques. Technologies used in the devices can include sensors, optics, data analysis algorithms and novel materials that lead to increased detection sensitivity, optical resolution or effective operating distance.

Types of imaging and optical devices and sensors include full-body scanners, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-rays, electro-optical infrared camera equipment (e.g. thermal imaging and night vision), hyperspectral and multispectral imaging, and space-rated imaging sensors.

Magnetic Field Sensors (or Magnetometers)

This refers to sensors that are used to detect or measure changes in a magnetic field, or its intensity or direction, providing additional navigation information for aircrafts, as well as enhanced detection and monitoring of objects underwater or underground. Magnetometers are also widely used in geophysical surveying and mineral exploration.

Micro (or Nano) Electro-Mechanical Systems (M/NEMS)

This refers to miniaturized, lightweight electro-mechanical devices that integrate mechanical and electrical functionality at the microscopic or nano level to enable sensing, communication and actuation, among other capabilities, which have useful applications in many areas, including robotics and autonomous systems, information technology, communications, and healthcare.

A potential use of M/NEMS could be as 'smart dust', or a group of M/NEMs, made up of various components, including sensors, circuits, communications technology and a power supply, that function as a single digital entity. Smart dust could be light enough to float in the air and detect vibrations, light, pressure and temperature, among other things, to capture a great deal of information about a particular environment.

Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) Technology

This refers to systems, platforms or capabilities that enable accurate and timely calculation of positioning (i.e. the longitude, latitude and altitude of one's location), navigation (i.e. the longitude, latitude and altitude of one's current and desired locations) and timing (i.e. time signal or frequency data to determine accurate time). These technologies are critical to a wide-range of applications, most notably for enabling the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), one of which is the widely-used GPS or Global Positioning System (see Space-based positioning, navigation and timing technology in the Aerospace, Space and Satellite Technology section), but also for enabling navigation in areas where GPS or GNSS do not work. Various other technologies, such as robotics and autonomous systems, and advanced digital infrastructure technology depend upon precise and reliable PNT technologies to function accurately and effectively.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Chip-scale advanced atomic clocks

This refers to clocks that use the frequencies (or natural oscillations) of atoms to measure time. They are portable and more energy-efficient than current tools, making them easy to carry. They are also significantly more accurate than mechanical clocks, and are used in commercial applications, such as telecommunications and GPS systems.

Gravity-aided inertial navigation system (GAINS)

This refers to a passive navigation system that uses a map of the Earth's gravitational anomaly to support more accurate navigation.

Long-range underwater navigation system

This refers to a system that provides a geolocation underwater while submerged to enable navigation and localization using tools, such as gravity-based sensors or measurements of acoustic travel time, without having to resurface for a GNSS position.

Magnetic anomaly navigation

This refers to the use of magnetic anomaly or lithospheric fields to provide signals for more precise navigation with global availability and no attackable infrastructure. Magnetic anomaly navigation has been tested in combination with inertial navigation systems in an aircraft and delivered promising results.

Precision inertial navigation system (INS)

This refers to a passive system that uses multiple sensors, namely an accelerometer and gyroscope, to measure position, velocity and acceleration that is processed by a computer to enable navigation.

Side Scan Sonar

This refers to an active sonar system that uses a transducer array to send and receive acoustic pulses in swaths laterally from the tow-body or vessel, enabling it to quickly scan a large area in a body of water to produce an image of the sea floor beneath the tow-body or vessel.

Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS)

This refers to an active sonar system that produces high resolution images of the sea floor along the track of the vessel or tow body. SAS can send continuous sonar signals to capture images underwater at 30 times the resolution of traditional sonar systems, as well as up to 10 times the range and area coverage.

Underwater (Wireless) Sensor Network (U(W)SN)

This refers to a network of sensors and autonomous/uncrewed marine vehicles that use acoustic waves to communicate with each other, or with underwater sinks that collect and transmit data from deep ocean sensors, to enable remote sensing, surveillance and ocean exploration, observation and monitoring.

5. Advanced Weapons

Advanced weapons refer to a broad category of emerging or improved weapons, and defensive systems that could have military, and possibly non-military, applications. Some advanced weapons are strictly an emerging technology, and therefore not fully developed or in use. A technology's inclusion on this list is not an indication that Canada is actively pursuing or using the technology as a weapon or otherwise; however, the technology may be encountered by Canadian military personnel or law enforcement if used by malicious actors or adversaries. Advancements in materials, manufacturing, propulsion, energy and other technologies have brought weapons like directed energy weapons and hypersonic weapons closer to reality, while advancements in nanotechnology, synthetic biology, artificial intelligence and sensing technologies, among others, could provide enhancements to existing weapons, such as biological/chemical weapons, adaptive weapons, and autonomous weapons. Existing weapons are inherently sensitive to Canada's defence, national security, and public safety, and are already subject to various regulatory measures.

Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT)

This refers to systems and their related guidance, targeting, detection sub-systems that can be used to destroy or deny satellite capabilities. These may take the form of anti-satellite missiles, directed-energy weapons (e.g. laser-based or focused radiofrequency weapons, which are covered in more detail under Directed Energy Weapons) and space-based weapons (e.g. kinetic kill vehicles, jammers, lasers, chemicals, radiofrequency or robotic mechanisms).

Biological and Chemical Weapons

This refers to weapons that use either a manufactured chemical substance, such as chlorine gas, a biomolecule, such as oligonucleotides or polypeptides, or a security sensitive biological agent (SSBA), such as bacteria or a virus, with dual-use potential to incapacitate, infect, or kill humans, animals, or plants.

Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs)

This refers to weapons that use a concentrated beam of electromagnetic energy, or atomic or subatomic particles to disrupt, disable, damage or destroy a target (a person, a facility or equipment).

Examples include, but are not limited to:

High energy laser (HEL)

This refers to a weapon that aims electromagnetic energy on a target at the speed of light in a concentrated manner and for a long enough duration to heat it up and damage or destroy its surface material.

High power radio frequency/high power microwave (HPRF/HPM)

This refers to weapons that aim high levels of electromagnetic energy at electronic equipment or devices in order to disrupt or damage them.

Particle beam weapons

This refers to weapons that deliver a beam of atomic or subatomic particles (either charged or neutral) travelling at near-light speed at a target to damage or destroy it.

Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP)

This refers to a weapon that releases a high magnitude pulse of electromagnetic energy to disable or damage all devices and systems that use electricity within a certain radius, ranging from hundreds of metres to several kilometres.

Electromagnetic Railgun (EMRG)

This refers to a weapon that uses electromagnetic force instead of gunpowder – specifically electric currents that create magnetic fields – to shoot guided projectiles at very high speeds with a range of over 100 miles.

Hypersonic Weapons

This refers to weapons that can travel five times faster than the speed of sound (Mach 5). There are two types of hypersonic weapons currently being explored: hypersonic cruise missiles, which are powered by air-breathing engines and can travel up to Mach 20 toward their target, and hypersonic glide vehicles, which are launched by rocket boosters and glide toward their target at hypersonic speeds.

(Lethal) Autonomous Weapon Systems ((L)AWS)

This refers to weapons systems, which can include robotics, that depend on sensors and algorithms to autonomously identify a target and fire upon it without human intervention. It is expected that (L)AWS will be able to operate anywhere (land, sea, air or space), either individually, or as a swarm by communicating with each other.

Nuclear Weapons

This refers to innovations in the research, processes or technologies related to nuclear weapons which harness nuclear reactions (fission or fusion) in an explosive device.

Offensive Cyber Tools

This refers to cyber tools and methods, such as the exploitation of hardware and software vulnerabilities, malicious software (viruses and worms, spyware, ransomware, etc.), or controlled or compromised network devices, either individually or as a set, used for malicious or offensive cyber activities.

Sonic (or Acoustic) Weapons

This refers to sonic, ultrasonic and infrasonic weapons that use sound waves at various frequencies to incapacitate or injure a target, or a group of targets.

Supercavitating Torpedoes

This refers to developments in torpedoes which use supercavitation, where fluid is forced to flow around an object at high speeds that creates a decrease in pressure causing the fluid to vaporize, which reduces the drag force felt by the object.

6. Aerospace, Space and Satellite Technology

Aerospace technology refers to the technology that enables the design, production, testing, operation and maintenance of aircraft, spacecraft and their respective components, as well as other aeronautics. Space and satellite technology refers to technologies that enable travel, research and exploration in space, as well as weather-tracking, advanced positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), communications, remote sensing and other capabilities using satellites and other space-based assets.

Other technologies covered in this list could enable advancements in aerospace, space and satellite technology. Advanced materials and manufacturing could allow for the faster and more cost-efficient production of specialized aircraft, spacecraft, satellites or components with certain advanced properties, such as heat resistance, signature reduction, ability to harvest and store energy, etc. Advanced energy technology and biotechnology could provide new sources of power, such as biofuels, to support greener and more energy-efficient aircraft and spacecraft. Advanced sensors, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence and big data could facilitate enhanced, (semi‑) autonomous navigation and flight control that responds to a rapidly changing operating environment, as well as improved structural health monitoring of aircraft or spacecraft informed by predictive analytics that anticipates when maintenance or replacement of components will be needed.

Advanced Wind Tunnels

This refers to the technological advancements in systems related to wind tunnel infrastructure. Existing facilities are used to simulate various flight conditions and speeds ranging from subsonic, transonic, supersonic and hypersonic. These facilities are required for researchers and designers to advance aerospace technologies.

Continued developments in this area may also be covered in other sections of the list as computing processing power, sensor technologies and materials will play a key role in the future of wind tunnels. However, there are other unique considerations such as using a collection of hundreds of individually controlled fans that can simulate distinct operating conditions, automated terrain systems (which can reconfigure itself to test different flow conditions) and novel support mechanisms for testing (as classical mounting techniques often involve rigid connections which interfere with the airflow itself).

On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing Systems

This refers to the systems and equipment that are used for space-based servicing, assembly and manufacturing. This is a broad categorization that can create, maintain, fix or improve capabilities of space assets to enhance reliability. On-Orbit Servicing can involve refueling, repairing, inspecting or upgrading existing space systems. This can enable the modernization of existing systems, increasing asset service life and reducing extensive costs associated with space technologies. On-Orbit Assembly involves joining components, equipment or systems together in space. This can be leveraged to overcome technical challenges, reduce costs and to permit larger or more complex assemblies. On-Orbit Manufacturing refers to the ability to create components in space and on demand. On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing systems can be used to optimize space logistics, increase efficiencies, mitigate debris threats and to modernize space asset capabilities.

Payloads

This refers to lower cost satellite payloads with increased performance that can meet the needs of various markets. Advances in miniaturization of components, microelectronics, materials, and software have increased the adoption of satellites for earth and space observation as well as telecommunication applications. Such payloads will require several technology improvements, such as light weight apertures, antennas, panels, transceivers, control actuators, optical/infrared sensor and multi-spectral imagers, to meet the growing demand and ever-increasing technical requirements.

Propulsion Technologies

This refers to components and systems that produce a powerful thrust to push an object forward, which is essential to launching aircraft, spacecraft, rockets or missiles. Innovations could range from new designs or advanced materials to enable improved performance, speed, energy-efficiency and other enhanced properties (e.g. lighter weight, durability, heat-resistance), as well as reduced aircraft production times and emissions.

Some examples of advancements in propulsion technology include, but are not limited to turbine engines that can self-adjust rotor blade positions while in flight for optimal performance, synergetic air-breathing rocket engines that could enable hypersonic flight and make it cheaper and easier to travel to space, and turbines made with new heat-resistant superalloys and ceramic composites to withstand extremely high temperature, such as during hypersonic flight.

Examples of propulsion technologies include, but are not limited to: electrified aircraft propulsion, which uses electric systems to power aircraft and is more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly than traditional fuel-burning aircraft propulsion; solar electric propulsion, which is electrically-powered by solar arrays and uses significantly less propellant than chemical propulsion to enable space travel and exploration; solar sails, which are large, reflective sails that capture and use the momentum from the Sun's light to move a spacecraft; and pulse detonation engines, which operate on the supersonic detonation of fuel and detonation shocks to compress the working fluid (rather than compressors or ram compression) which could theoretically lead to greater efficiencies.

Additionally, examples of nuclear propulsion technologies that could support nuclear-powered space technologies include, but are not limited to: nuclear thermal propulsion systems, which are being considered for manoeuvring and powering spacecraft already in space by using heat from a nuclear reaction to vaporize a propellant that is used to create thrust; nuclear pulse propulsion systems, which are centered around the concept of using a series of explosive pulses to propel a spacecraft; and nuclear electric propulsion systems, which use converted electrical energy to drive an ion thruster and propel the spacecraft using accelerated ions.

Satellites

This refers to artificial or human-made, including (semi-)autonomous, objects placed into orbit. Depending on their specific function, satellites typically consist of an antenna, radio communications system, a power source and a computer, but their exact composition may vary. Satellites can be broadly categorized based on their size (at the extremes there are large satellites which weigh over 1,000 kilograms and picosatellites that weigh less than 1 kilogram). Continued developments have led to smaller satellites that are less costly to manufacture and deploy compared to large satellites, resulting in faster development times and increased accessibility to space. Though satellites have been used for decades to provide a diverse set of applications, as the technology in this area continues to advance, new and existing opportunities will flourish.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Communication satellites

These satellites are essential in relaying global communications by reflecting, re-transmitting or processing signals. These satellites can enable voice communications, television, internet, radio and mobile services.

Remote sensing satellites

These satellites can remotely monitor physical characteristics that can be used for environmental and weather monitoring as well as reconnaissance missions. A remote sensing satellite's payload, imaging instruments/sensors and altitude can vary depending on the specific application.

Space-Based Position, Navigation and Timing Technologies

This refers to Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based satellites and technologies that will improve the accuracy, agility and resilience of GNSS, an example of which is GPS.

For example, the Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NT-3) currently being built by the U.S. Air Force will explore and test many new features for improving PNT services and capabilities, including autonomous geo-spatial positioning, near-real-time error detection and mitigation, and interference mitigation.

Space Stations

This refers to a type of space-based facility that can act as an orbital outpost while having the ability to support extended human operations. Space stations can be used as a hub to support other space-based activities including assembly, manufacturing, research, experimentations, training, space vehicle docking and storage. As such, these space stations can naturally support the on-orbit servicing, manufacturing and assembly systems outlined above or be used as a forward operating base, which will become increasingly important as space mining and other space activities advance. Examples of innovations in space stations could include the ability to extend further out into space (for example cislunar operations) or enhanced life support systems that can be used to prolong human missions.

Zero-Emission/Fuel Aircraft

This refers to aircraft powered by energy sources that do not emit polluting emissions that disrupt the environment or do not require fuel to fly.

Developments in this area include concepts for zero-emissions aircraft that use cleaner hydrogen fuel as a more environmentally-friendly power source, as well as a zero-fuel aircraft, Solar Impulse, powered by solar photovoltaic cells that completed a trip around the world in 2016. While still in early stages, these advances in powering aircraft could support cleaner air travel, as well as enable flight over greater distances and to remote areas without the need for refueling (for zero-fuel aircraft).

7. Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Technology

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad field encompassing the science of making computers behave in a manner that simulates human behaviour or other non-human intelligence using data and algorithms. Big data refers to information and data that is large and complex in volume, velocity and variety, and as such, requires specialized tools, techniques and technologies to process, analyze and visualize it. Big data and AI are interconnected as big data technology often requires AI to better handle increasingly large and complex sets of data, while AI development relies on big data technology and often requires large amounts of data on which to train and improve. AI and big data technology may be considered a cross-cutting technology given how important the technology area is in enabling developments in all other technology areas, including biotechnology, advanced materials and manufacturing, robotics and autonomous systems and many others.

Data Science

This refers to technologies and tools that enable the autonomous or semi-autonomous analysis of data. It also includes the extraction or generation of deeper insights, predictions or recommendations to inform decision-making.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Data analytics

Data analytics encompasses a variety of statistical techniques including data correlation and machine learning, that analyze current and historical facts to make predictions about future or otherwise unknown events. Broad examples of predictive AI algorithms include predicting depression, anticipating disease outbreaks and predicting earthquakes, among others. It should be noted, however, that these predictions are not always accurate based on a variety of factors that include, but are not limited to, the training data and the context in which it is used.

Data analytics also includes data mining which is the process of discovering trends, patterns and other useful information among raw data and transforming it into practical information. In its applications, data mining can be used to extract information from a target dataset and use machine learning algorithms to verify patterns along wider datasets. It can be combined with data analytics and visualization tools to extract key information more effectively and efficiently.

Increasingly data analytics is enabled by AI. 'AI-enabled data analytics' refers to technologies or processes that are leveraging AI to analyze or interpret data in a more efficient manner than traditional methods. Examples of AI-enabled data analytics include automated data analysis and advanced data visualization, among others. Automated data analysis automates the process of preparing and analyzing data to automatically detect patterns or anomalies and extract insights much faster than humans, without their analysis or intervention. Advanced data visualization visualizes data in an interactive manner using multiple dimensions, animation and other features to better explain the story behind the data.

Data storage/warehousing

This refers to a central data storage hub that consists of data accumulated from a variety of sources for the purposes of data analysis, data mining, and machine learning or other AI techniques. Data warehouse systems allow for analytics to be done on large amounts of data (e.g. multiple petabytes of data) in a manner that is not possible with standard databases, and often have their own analytics and visualization tools.

Digital Twin Technology

This refers to virtual representations of physical objects or systems that combine real-time sensor data, big data processing and artificial intelligence (namely machine learning) to create an interactive model and predict the object or system's future behaviour or performance. Advancements in digital twin technology could enable the growth and integration of the metaverse into daily life (covered under Extended Reality in the Human-Machine Integration section). 

Generative AI

This refers to a type of artificial intelligence that generates new content by modelling features of data from large datasets that were fed into the model. Unlike traditional AI systems such as Regression Models (logistic and linear), Computational or Inductive Learning, and Non-Parametric Models, which primarily focus on recognizing patterns or classifying existing content, generative AI has the capability to create new content in many forms, including text, image, audio, or software code. One class of generative AIs that have seen significant improvement in recent years are large language models.

The advent of Deep Learning techniques has been a pivotal factor in the advancement of generative AI. Deep Learning algorithms, particularly neural networks with multiple layers, have enabled the development of more sophisticated generative models capable of understanding and replicating complex patterns in data. These models can generate content that is increasingly indistinguishable from that created by humans, thereby expanding the potential applications of AI in creative and technical fields.

Machine Learning (ML)

This refers to a branch of AI where computer programs are trained using algorithms and data to improve their decisions when introduced to a new set of data without necessarily being programmed to do so. The output of those algorithms, models, can be trained using a variety of techniques including supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning and have many real-life applications. Supervised learning involves training models with annotated data in order to make predictions of unforeseen data.  Unsupervised learning looks for patterns and similarity data and can find correlations and groups within a large dataset, facilitating analysis. Reinforcement learning uses a penalty/reward system to guide the model in making decision for the best outcome. This is particularly useful in situations where there is no training dataset but easily identifiable intermediary goals.

Types of ML techniques include deep learning, online learning, evolutionary computation, random forests, statistical inference, and all neural networks, from simple feed-forward architectures to multi-layer deep learning systems. Trained ML models could be used to reconstruct lost or damaged data that was used to train the model.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

This refers to an area of AI that allows computers to process and analyze natural human language using text, which either exists, or, through a separate 'automatic speech recognition' process, can be transcribed from human voices and other audio. Recent developments in the large language model space have yielded models that can understand and generate natural language text as well as generate code, a capability which can be leveraged to exploit vulnerabilities. Examples of NLP include natural language understanding, natural language generation, machine translation, sentiment analysis, named entity recognition, text summarization and question answering, which enable capabilities like virtual assistants, chatbots, machine translation, predictive text, sentiment analysis and automatic summarization.

8. Human-Machine Integration

Human-machine integration (HMI) refers to the pairing of operators with technology to enhance or optimize human capability. The nature of the integration can vary widely, with an important dimension being the invasive nature of the pairing. At one end of the HMI spectrum human users interface with a computer via a keyboard that offloads cognitive effort through explicit commands. On the other end of the spectrum, sensors planted directly in the brain of a human user directly pick up brain activity that, through sufficient computing power, can be translated into machine actions. Across the spectrum, effective HMI is enabled by, and interacts with, various other technologies captured in this list, including advanced materials, computing, sensor technology, artificial intelligence, metaverse, big data analytics, robotics and autonomous systems, and more.

Exoskeletons

This refers to external devices or 'wearable robots' that provide physical support to the human body and can assist or augment the physical and physiological performance/capabilities of an individual or a group.

This technology is powered by batteries and use sensors, computers, motors and other components to support an individual performing a strenuous or repetitive activity by increasing strength and endurance while reducing strain on joints and muscles and minimizing injury.

Extended Reality

This refers to immersive technologies that combine elements of the virtual world with the real world to create an interactive virtual experience. Some applications of these technologies include integration with a variety of biosignals.

Virtual reality (VR) enables full immersion into a computer-generated digital environment, whereas augmented reality (AR) adds virtual information, text or images to enhance real world objects and mixed reality (MR) builds on AR by making the virtual objects interactive and responsive like real ones.

An application of these technologies that several companies are developing is the 'metaverse' which is an immersive digital experience that integrates the physical world with the digital one and allows users to interact and perform a variety of activities like shopping and gaming, seamlessly in one virtual ecosystem. While still being explored, this could potentially translate into a digital economy with its own currency, property and other goods.

To fully realize its potential, metaverse would depend on advancements in a number of existing and emerging technologies beyond AR/MR/VR, including graphical processing, computing speeds, network bandwidth technology, digital twin technology and artificial intelligence (covered under Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Technology), cloud computing, digital ledger technology and networking technology (covered under Advanced Digital Infrastructure Technology).

Neuroprosthetics

This refers to implanted and worn devices that interact with the nervous system to enhance or restore motor, sensory, cognitive, visual, auditory, or communicative functions, often resulting from brain injury. This includes cybernetic limbs or devices that go beyond medical use to contribute to human performance enhancement. While many products have yet to be realised, a commonplace example of an auditory device is cochlear implants.

Neurotechnologies such as Brain-Computer Interfaces

This refers to an interface that allows a human to interact with a computer directly via input from the brain through a device that senses brain activity, allowing for research, mapping, assistance or augmentation of human brain functions that could enable improved cognitive performance or communication with digital devices.

Wearable Technology

This refers to neurotechnology devices that are wearable, non-invasive (i.e. do not need to be implanted) and are increasingly becoming commercialized.

These wearable brain devices can be used for medical uses, such as tracking brain health and sending data to a doctor to inform treatment, as well as for non-medical applications related to human optimization, augmentation or enhancement, such as user-drowsiness, cognitive load monitoring or early reaction detection, among others.

An example of wearable neurotechnology currently being researched is wearable personalized technology that could enhance human sensory and motor functions in environments with altered gravity, such as space, to help astronauts maintain good health and performance on missions. Other examples include actigraphy, heart-rate monitors, and skin conductance.

9. Life Science Technology

Life science technology is a broad term that encompasses a wide array of technologies that enhance living organisms, such as biotechnology and medical and healthcare technologies, many of which are rapidly advancing. There is potential that some technological advances can have dual-uses, including those that involve modified or extracted biological material from new and emerging pathogens or toxins. Modified or extracted materials could be created to have enhanced harmful properties such as pathogenicity, transmissibility, or ability to evade the immune system, among others. Unintentional or deliberate release of these materials, or information related to them, could cause significant damage to the health, social, and economic wellbeing of Canadians.

Biotechnology uses living systems, processes and organisms, or parts of them, to develop new or improved products, processes or services. It is being used for a wide variety of unique applications, such as new drugs or methods to grow organs, improved agricultural processes that produce pest- or weather- resistant crops; or new chemicals or fuels for machinery, vehicles, aircraft, etc. Biotechnology often integrates other areas of technology, such as nanotechnology, robotics, additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, computing and others, to create novel solutions to problems, or enhance human performance. For example, artificial intelligence is often used to do research in synthetic biology – an emerging and growing field of biotechnology – to develop new drugs or vaccines.

Medical and healthcare technology refers to tools, processes or services that support good health and prevent, or attempt to prevent, disease. This includes earlier and more accurate diagnosing of diseases, and improving the treatment of diseases. Advances in biotechnology, nanotechnology and advanced materials are enabling new methods of delivering medicine or treating injuries, diseases or exposure to toxic substances. Additionally, the integration of other technologies, such as artificial intelligence and big data, sensors, digital technology and others, with medical and healthcare technology is facilitating a move towards precision/personalized medicine, such as individualized treatment and care based on an individual's data (e.g. genetics, environment, lifestyle, etc.) and optimized by artificial intelligence analysis.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Biotechnology

Biomanufacturing

This refers to the methods, tools, and processes that enable the industrial production of bio-based products, materials, chemicals, or food using biological organisms or systems found in nature or modified to fill a special purpose.

Advances in biomanufacturing, such as automation and sensor-based production, has led to commercial-scale production of new biological products, such as biomaterials and biosensors, with applications in a wide-range of areas including healthcare, agriculture, construction and infrastructure, and alternative energy fuels.

Engineering Biology

This refers to the combination of biology and engineering to create new biological entities, such as cells or enzymes, or redesign existing biological systems, with new functions like sensing or producing a specific substance, which could be useful in areas like medicine, agriculture and manufacturing. Engineering biology incorporates disciplines such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, metabolic engineering, genomics and multi-omics.

It is expected to enable advancements in many areas, such as antibiotic, drug and vaccine development, biocomputers, biofuel, novel drug delivery platforms, novel chemicals, synthetic food, and synthetic life. This area of biotechnology has largely advanced due to protein engineering and genetic sequencing and synthesis, which have enabled the development and testing of new, synthetic biological entities.

Epigenetics and Epigenomics

Epigenetics refers to the study of processes that influence gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence (e.g. DNA methylation). These are reversible alterations that can be maintained from cell to cell. Epigenomics is focused on studying the effects of all epigenetic changes across the entire genetic material (genome) of a cell.

Genomics

This refers to technologies that enable whole genome, exome, and epigenome sequencing, monitoring or surveillance using environmental DNA, the direct manipulation of an organism's genome using DNA or RNA, or genetic engineering to produce new or modified organisms.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)

This refers to gene editing technology that allows for a genome to be edited or modified much faster and more affordably than before, making gene editing more accessible and feasible for new areas of research. Additionally, CRISPR can be applied to epigenome editing; genetic engineering where select epigenomes are modified. Potential applications of genetic and genome sequencing, analysis and engineering beyond research include medical treatments and therapeutics, such as gene therapy, human or animal performance enhancements, such as biological modifications to improve physical, mental or cognitive function and resilience to stress, genetically-modified food and novel fuels for machinery, among others.

Gene drives

Gene drives use CRISPR to propagate a selected suite of genes throughout a population. Gene drives have potential benefits in terms of public health (for example, they have been used to eradicate populations of malaria-carrying mosquitoes) and food production. However, this technology could also be used for bioterrorism applications, and has the potential to create ecological or agricultural disasters.

Next generation sequencing (NGS)

This refers to an area that is becoming the new preferred technology in recent years for screening of genomic variants of pathologic and therapeutic potential. This technology has the capability to conduct high-throughput parallel sequencing to screen for a variety of genomic changes in multiple samples simultaneously. NGS-based methods can be used to study multiple associated disciplines such as proteomics, transcriptomics, epigenome editing and multi-omics analysis, and, due to the high-throughput nature of NGS-based approaches, it also enables genome-wide analyses and studies at single-cell resolution.

Metabolomics

This refers to the comprehensive study and analysis of the small molecules, or metabolites, produced by a cell, tissue or organism. It is a relatively newer field of study and member of the “omics” family technologies that also includes genomics and proteomics.

Metabolomics applications are critical for biological engineering, healthcare delivery, diagnostics, environmental and chemical monitoring, agriculture, and every other discipline, technology or activity impacted by chemistry and biochemistry.

Proteomics

This refers to the large-scale and experimental analysis of protein, proteomes and proteome informatics. Proteomic applications can be used for the identification of unknown bacterial species and strains, including protein toxins such as ricin and botulinum neurotoxins, as well as species level identifications of tissues, body fluids, and bones of unknown origin.

Broad applications also include medicine, disease diagnosis, and biomarker identification which can impact the understanding of protein function in healthy and diseased cells. Proteomic-based technologies are utilized in a wide array of research settings such as detection of diagnostic markers, identifying candidates for vaccine production, expanding knowledge of pathogenicity mechanisms, altering expression patterns in response to different signals and interpretation of functional protein pathways in different diseases. Combined with big data and machine learning technologies, emerging technology in this field has the potential to impact civilian research and development.

Medical and Healthcare Technology

Advanced Virology Techniques

This refers to sophisticated analytical methods and technologies used to detect, identify and characterize viruses. These techniques are rapid, sensitive, specific, and relatively inexpensive compared to traditional methods of viral isolation and culture. Examples include next-generation sequencing (NGS), single-cell analysis (e.g. single-cell RNA sequencing), mass spectrometry, flow virometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Collectively, advanced virology techniques enable an enhanced understanding of viruses, their evolution and provide tools to develop new vaccines, antiviral drugs and diagnostic methods.

Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Medical Countermeasures (MCMs)

This refers to various medical assets used to prevent, diagnose or treat injuries or illnesses caused by chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear (CBRN) threats, whether naturally-occurring or engineered.

CBRN medical countermeasures include therapeutics to treat injuries and illnesses, such as biologic products (e.g. vaccines, antibodies, blood products) or drugs (e.g. antibiotic, antiviral, anti-toxin), as well as diagnostics to determine human exposure to the threats (e.g. testing kits or devices, immunological tests or molecular assays such as PCR etc.).

Gene Therapy

This refers to the use of genetic manipulation or modification to prevent, treat, or cure disease, either by replacing or disabling disease-causing genes or inserting new or modified genes.

Nanomedicine

This refers to the use of nanomaterials to diagnose, monitor, prevent or treat disease.

Examples of nanomedicine include nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery, smart imaging using nanomaterials, as well as nano-engineered implants to support tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

This refers to methods of regenerating or rebuilding cells, tissues, organs, or organisms to restore or enhance normal biological function. Regenerative medicine includes self-healing, where the body is able to use its own tools or other biological materials to regrow tissues or cells, whereas tissue engineering largely focuses on the use of synthetic and biological materials, such as stem cells, to build function constructs or supports that help heal or restore damaged tissues or organs. This second category includes human-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are modified stem cells that allow for the unlimited creation of any human cell type. Human derived iSPCs have applications in patient specific cell therapy, drug screening and toxicity tests as well as disease modelling.

10. Quantum Science and Technology

Quantum science is the study, manipulation and control of systems at the atomic and subatomic level. Transistors, semiconductors, computer processors and lasers are among the quantum-based technologies that serve as the foundation of the digital age. Recent advances in the field have enabled greater control of systems to perform tasks with higher precision. This new generation of devices  could significantly enhance the performance over those of existing, 'classical', technologies. This technology is expected to deliver sensing and imaging, communications, and computing capabilities that far exceed those of conventional technologies in certain cases, well as new materials with extraordinary properties and many useful applications.

As devices and systems based on classical physics continue to reach what is believed to be their performance limits, certain ones may be increasingly disrupted and replaced by quantum-enhanced technologies that enable advancements or improvements in areas outlined in this list, including biotechnology, advanced materials, position, navigation and timing (PNT), robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), space technology and others.

Quantum Communications

This refers to communications networks that take advantage of the laws of physics to protect and share data. Potential applications include protecting communications against eavesdropping and connecting quantum devices together. One application of particular interest is the employment of quantum communications to protect data using a type of quantum cryptography, known as quantum key distribution (QKD).

QKD systems aim to use transmitted information to establish private encryption keys between two parties with a guarantee that no third party (eavesdropper) has learned anything useful about the keys, effectively allowing for the detection of eavesdropping across a communication channel.

Quantum Computing

This refers to types of computers that harness the behaviour of microscopic elements the size of atoms to perform calculations. Potential applications include machine learning; the design of pharmaceuticals, advanced materials and chemical processes; and the resolution of optimization problems in finance, logistics and other critical domains. Quantum computers store information using quantum bits, also known as qubits, to process information by capitalizing on quantum mechanical effects. This could allow for a large number of specific kinds of calculations to be processed at the same time. For example, a qubit may be implemented as a single photon, electron, superconducting loop, or trapped ion.

Advances in quantum computers may be able to solve certain problems significantly faster than the most powerful supercomputers. A form of quantum computing called 'noisy intermediate scale quantum' or NISQ already exists, but it does not currently outperform non-quantum computers (except for specific calculations).

Quantum Materials

This refers to materials with unusual magnetic and electrical properties that could enable energy-efficient electrical systems, better batteries and the construction of new types of electronic devices.

Examples of quantum materials include superconductors, graphene (both covered under Advanced Materials), topological insulators (materials whose surface acts as an electrical conductor while its interior acts as an electrical insulator), Weyl semimetals (solid state crystals that produce Weyl fermions which can carry an electrical charge at room temperature), metal chalcogenides and others. While many of these materials are still being explored and studied, they are promising contenders for applications in a variety of fields, and could enable energy-efficient electrical systems, better batteries and the development of new types of electronic devices.

Quantum Sensing

This refers to a broad range of devices at various stages of technological readiness, that use quantum systems, properties, or phenomena to measure a physical quantity with increased precision, stability and accuracy.

Quantum sensing could be used in a variety of fields, including medicine and environmental sciences, where applications such as magnetic and electric field sensing, gravitational sensing, acoustic sensing, photonic sensing, quantum illumination and others could provide game-changing solutions.

One development of particular interest relates to leveraging quantum phenomena to advance the capabilities of classical radar to enable covert detection. While numerous challenges remain with respect to the development of proper quantum illumination sources and quantum detection mechanisms, and current research has demonstrated effectiveness only over very short ranges, quantum radar could potentially revolutionize the field.

Examples of quantum sensors include atomic interferometer sensors which are quantum sensors that perform sensitive interferometric measurements using the wave character of atomic particles. These sensors can detect small changes in inertial forces and can be used in gravimetry. They can also improve accuracy in navigation and provide position information in environments where GPS is unavailable.

Quantum Software and Algorithms

This refers to software and algorithms that run on quantum computers, enable the efficient operation and design of quantum computers, or software that enables the development and optimization of quantum computing applications.

11. Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) are machines or systems with a certain degree of autonomy (ranging from semi- to fully autonomous) that are able to carry out certain activities with little to no human control or intervention by gathering insights from their surroundings and making decisions based on them, including improving their overall task performance.

These machines often rely on several components, including sensors for data collection, artificial intelligence for decision-making, computing for information processing/data computation and communications technology to interact with other systems or a human (if semi-autonomous). Therefore, RAS are a convergence of several technologies captured in this list.

Molecular (or Nano) Robotics

This refers to the creation and utilization of machines or robots at the molecular or nano-scale level. This involves the manipulation and programming of molecules to perform specific tasks, potentially including targeted drug delivery, precision assembly at the molecular level, or detailed sensing applications.

(Semi-)Autonomous/Uncrewed Aerial/Ground/Marine Vehicles

This refers to vehicles that function without any onboard human intervention. Instead, they are either controlled remotely by a human operator or they operate semi-autonomously or autonomously.

Uncrewed vehicles rely on software, sensors and artificial intelligence technology to collect and analyze information about their environment, plan and alter their route (if semi- or fully autonomous), and interact with other systems or vehicles (or human operator, if remotely-controlled).

Service Robots

This refers to robots that carry out tasks useful to humans that may be tedious, time-consuming, repetitive, dangerous or complement human behaviour when resources are not available, e.g. supporting elderly people. They are semi- or fully-autonomous, able to make decisions with some or no human interaction/intervention (depending on the degree of autonomy), and can be manually overridden by a human.

Space Robotics

This refers to the development of devices, or 'space robots', that are able to perform various functions in orbit, such as assembling or servicing, to support astronauts, or replace human explorers in the exploration of remote planets to enable more exploration capabilities and areas.