Canada Invests $200 Million in Nova Scotia Space Launch Pad

The Canadian government is investing $200 million over the next decade to establish a dedicated space launch site at Spaceport Nova Scotia, near Canso, Nova Scotia. This initiative aims to provide Canada with sovereign access to space and bolster the domestic defence industry.

Strategic Investment in Sovereign Space Launch Capability

On Monday, March 16, 2026, Defence Minister David McGuinty announced the investment at the Canadian Space Agency’s David Florida Laboratory in Ottawa . Currently, Canada relies on the United States for launching its satellites into orbit.

Details of the Agreement

The Department of National Defence (DND) will lease a dedicated launch pad at Spaceport Nova Scotia for a ten-year term, retroactive to April 1, 2025, under an agreement with Maritime Launch Services Inc. . The total contract value is $200 million, with Maritime Launch receiving $20 million annually.

Approximately 90 percent of the gross rental payments will be spent in Canada, supporting domestic industry and workforce development . The first $20 million payment is scheduled before March 31, 2026, with subsequent $5 million payments at the complete of each fiscal quarter .

Spaceport Nova Scotia Location and Benefits

Spaceport Nova Scotia, located on Canada’s Atlantic coast, offers safe over-ocean launch corridors and access to highly sought-after orbital inclinations . The launch pad is situated near Canso, Nova Scotia .

Government Commitment to Space Capabilities

Minister McGuinty stated that the investment reaffirms Canada’s place among spacefaring nations and highlights the importance of space for national security and prosperity . The 2025 budget had already earmarked $183 million over three years for establishing sovereign space launch capabilities .