The Current Why Canada wants to launch its own satellites
Mar 27, 2026
Brigadier General Christopher Horner, commander of 3 Canadian Space Division, outlines why Canada wants its own launch capability. He talks about space as critical infrastructure and threats to satellites. He explains the need for assured access and resilience, why Nova Scotia is ideal for launches, and what a functional spaceport must include.
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Space Is Critical National Infrastructure
- Space is critical infrastructure that underpins finance, emergency services, weather, aviation and defence.
- Brigadier General Christopher Horner says losing space access could cost about a billion dollars of Canadian GDP per day and affects ~20% of the economy.
Space Has Emerging Security Threats
- Space is contested: anti-satellite tests and close-proximity maneuvers create threats and debris.
- Horner cites Russia's 2021 ASAT test and small maneuverable satellites that approach Western spacecraft as risks to sovereignty.
Assured Access Prevents Multiyear Launch Delays
- Assured access to space is necessary because commercial launch windows are becoming congested and delayed.
- Horner warns waits of two to three years for launches undermine sovereignty and the ability to quickly replace disrupted satellites.