Dual-Use Semiconductor Technology: Strengthening Defence and Driving Economic Growth

The convergence of semiconductor innovation and national defence is a long-standing trend, with many technologies initially developed for military applications finding widespread civilian use. This synergy not only bolsters national security but too fuels economic growth and job creation. Canada, with its established ocean technology ecosystem and strong commercial sectors, is uniquely positioned to leverage this dual-use approach, particularly in the realm of rugged and reliable semiconductor technologies.

A Historical Perspective: From GPS to Integrated Circuits

The roots of many modern technologies lie in defence initiatives. The Global Positioning System (GPS), originally developed by the U.S. Department of Defence in the 1970s for missile guidance , is a prime example. Similarly, integrated circuits (ICs), essential components in life-saving medical devices like pacemakers and defibrillators, gained momentum through military programs such as those supporting the Apollo missions . Canada’s involvement in the semiconductor industry dates back to the Cold War, primarily as a dual-use supplier within the Canada-U.S. Defence industrial system.

The Rise of GPS-Denied Navigation and Optical INS

Modern warfare increasingly anticipates scenarios where GPS signals are unavailable or unreliable. This has spurred demand for alternative navigation solutions. Companies like ANELLO Photonics are leading the way in photonic inertial navigation, providing precise positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) capabilities in GPS-denied and degraded environments . ANELLO Photonics has partnered with Delta Black Aerospace to integrate this optical inertial navigation technology into Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) , enhancing their operational effectiveness in contested environments.

Dual-Use Applications: Bridging Commercial and Defence Sectors

The inherent robustness required for defence applications translates directly to benefits in commercial sectors. Compound semiconductors, crucial for automotive power systems and mining equipment operating in harsh conditions, are also ideal for defence sensors and radar systems. Technologies developed for marine environments – sonar, navigation, and engine control – can be adapted for naval surveillance and submarine detection, particularly in strategically important regions like the Canadian Arctic. Precision farming sensors, initially designed for agricultural monitoring, can be repurposed for military surveillance in diverse terrains. Even emergency services technologies, proven in extreme weather and disaster response, contribute to national security.

Accelerating Innovation Through Commercialization

Advancing and validating semiconductor technologies in commercial sectors accelerates their time to market and stimulates economic growth. Canadian companies benefit from early adoption by paying customers, establishing valuable references for defence procurement opportunities. This cross-pollination of industries demonstrates how dual-use technologies can simultaneously strengthen national security, foster economic development, and create jobs.

Securing PNT with Commercial Chips

The U.S. Army is actively exploring the use of commercially available chips for assured PNT, moving away from purpose-built application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) . This shift reflects a broader recognition of the benefits of leveraging commercial innovation to enhance defence capabilities.

Enhancing GPS Security

Ongoing efforts to improve GPS security include updates to the electronic crypto key management and distribution architecture, coupled with advanced cryptographic and anti-reverse engineering technologies . These enhancements aim to improve the utility and flexibility of GPS, while enabling controlled usage within military coalition environments.