Halifax: opportunities for collaboration in maritime innovation and security
In early October, Blue Cluster took part in a FIT mission to Halifax, an important hub for maritime innovation, port activities and defence in Canada. Together with a Flemish delegation, we visited, among others, the innovation hub The PIER, the Halifax Port Authority, PSA's container terminal, the Canadian Coast Guard, the regional headquarters of NATO DIANA and the DEFSEC Atlantic trade fair.
The visit clearly demonstrated how Canada connects maritime security, economic development and technological innovation. Halifax brings together ports, shipbuilding, defence, knowledge institutions and young technology companies within a strong ecosystem. Innovation there often starts from a concrete operational challenge, after which companies can test their solution together with end users in a realistic environment.
Clear links with Flemish expertise
The themes closely align with the activities of Blue Cluster: the protection of critical maritime infrastructure, smart ports, sensors and underwater monitoring, drones and autonomous systems, data analysis and a shared operational picture. The development of robust technology for northern and remote areas also offers opportunities. Flemish companies and knowledge institutions possess relevant expertise in several of these fields.
Major investments create market opportunities
Canada is set to invest exceptionally heavily in defence, infrastructure and maritime capacity in the coming years. Annual core defence spending will increase from CAD 64 billion in 2025 to CAD 160 billion in 2035. If Canada fully meets the NATO target, this could rise to CAD 228 billion per year. Over the next decade, this amounts to more than CAD 1 trillion in defence and security expenditure.
At the same time, the country is seeking international partners to accelerate the development of technology, production capacity and specialised expertise. The most tangible opportunities for Flemish stakeholders include sensors, software, secure communications, specialised components, system integration, maintenance, and testing and demonstration projects. Access to the market does, however, require a targeted approach, with reliable local partners and a clear alignment with Canadian programmes and testing environments.
Foundation for further collaboration
The mission to Halifax and the visit to DEFSEC Atlantic provided Blue Cluster with an interesting basis for establishing new links between the Flemish and Canadian maritime ecosystems.
Would you like to know what opportunities this offers for your organisation, or explore how you can connect with Canadian initiatives and partners? Contact Eveline Buyck for more information.
