March 14, 2026 – Oslo, Norway – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Today, the Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, and the Minister of Defence of Norway, Tore O. Sandvik, signed a Letter of Intent to deepen bilateral cooperation in the space domain. This agreement builds on Canada and Norway’s long-standing collaboration and reinforces both countries’ commitment to national and collective defence.
The signing took place during Minister McGuinty’s visit to Norway with Prime Minister Mark Carney, where they participated in bilateral discussions and meetings to strengthen Canada’s Arctic and space security partnerships.
The Letter of Intent outlines shared priorities and establishes a framework to strengthen cooperation across areas including policy, intelligence, research and development, capabilities, and industry, with a particular focus on advancing Arctic security and supporting sovereign defence capabilities. It builds on existing collaboration through the Combined Space Operations Initiative, a partnership of ten like-minded spacefaring nations working together to enhance collective resilience, interoperability, and freedom of action in space in support of military operations.
Canada and Norway are long-standing Allies through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and share important national interests as Arctic nations. Both countries recognize that space capabilities are critical to national defence and security, particularly in remote regions such as the Arctic.
As Arctic Allies with advanced space sectors and growing space industries, Canada and Norway are well positioned to expand bilateral cooperation and strengthen their ability to operate effectively in the space domain and beyond.
Quotes
“Canada and Norway share a strong and enduring partnership as NATO Allies and Arctic nations. By signing this Letter of Intent, we are strengthening our cooperation in the space domain, which is an increasingly important area for defence and security. Working together will help our armed forces remain ready and resilient while advancing innovation and collaboration between our two countries.”
The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
Quick facts
The Combined Space Operations Initiative includes Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
In December 2025, officials from Canada and Norway agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in the space domain beyond existing collaboration through the Combined Space Operations Initiative.
Canada and Norway share strategic interests in the Arctic, where space-based capabilities such as satellite communications, surveillance, and navigation are essential for defence and security operations.
Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy identifies the space sector as a key sovereign capability required to strengthen Canada’s defence and support allies.
Canada is investing in the development of a sovereign space launch capability as part of efforts to strengthen national defence and support the defence industrial base.
Can I ask what nation is designated as lead for this space initiative or are all nations equal in representation/input?