As the world’s third-largest aerospace hub, Montréal offers a unique environment for defence companies and dual-use technology developers. The metropolitan area is home to six global OEMs (Airbus, Bombardier, Bell Textron, CAE, MDA Space and Pratt & Whitney) supported by a vast network of specialized suppliers, research centres and technology firms. Together, they drive the development of innovative solutions serving both civil and defence markets.
Greater Montréal is home to six United Nations offices, including the headquarters of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), as well as NATO’s Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence. This concentration of international institutions fosters collaboration on aviation, resilience and emerging security challenges.
The region also benefits from key military infrastructure, including the Longue-Pointe, Saint-Hubert and Saint-Jean garrisons, which support operations, training and innovation across the defence sector.
Public investment and R&D driving the industry forward
Canada’s defence and security sector is backed by a strong federal commitment. In 2025, the Government of Canada announced $81.8 billion in investments to modernize and strengthen the country’s defence capabilities. Supported by the Defence Industrial Strategy, these investments are creating new opportunities for companies operating in defence, aerospace and cybersecurity.
- 15 universities and higher education institutions
- 75% of Canada’s aerospace R&D
- 1,000+ research organizations in advanced sectors
- 46% of federal aerospace and defence contracts awarded to Québec-based companies (2015–2021)
- 33% cost advantage for defence manufacturing and R&D activities compared to other major North American metropolitan areas
A strong network fueling defence innovation
Canada is also advancing defence innovation through NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) and the Borealis Defence Innovation Secure Hubs (DISHs), initiatives designed to accelerate the development of next-generation technologies.
Building on one of North America’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems, Montréal gives companies access to highly qualified talent, world-class research infrastructure and an extensive network of industrial partners.
Facts and figures
In Montréal, the convergence of civil and military expertise is a powerful driver of innovation. Approximately one-quarter of Québec’s defence companies are also active in aerospace, creating strong opportunities for technology transfer and dual-use innovation.
This synergy is reflected in several flagship projects.
Global 6500
Equipped with advanced radar and sensor systems from Saab and L3Harris, Bombardier’s Global 6500 platform can detect aircraft, vessels and vehicles hundreds of kilometres away, combining global expertise with local know-how.
Bell 429
Designed and manufactured in Québec, Bell Textron’s Bell 429 is used for both emergency medical services and public safety and law enforcement missions, demonstrating the versatility of dual-use aerospace solutions.
Space technologies
MDA Space technologies support global connectivity, Earth observation and strategic missions related to security, surveillance and sovereignty.
From end to end, across the industry
- Assembly
- Service and maintenance
- Integrated systems
- Specialized software
- Space technologies
- Specialized product
A recognized leader in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, Montréal is home to Mila, one of the world’s largest academic research centres in machine learning, bringing together more than 1,400 researchers.
The region is also a major player in the space sector, with the headquarters of the Canadian Space Agency located in Greater Montréal. The agency leads Canada’s flagship space initiatives, including the Artemis II mission, the International Space Station and Canadarm2.
These strengths are complemented by world-class digital infrastructure, including the Montréal Exchange’s ultra-high-speed dedicated optical trading network (PNI Wave).
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