In this article, Kraken Robotics CEO Greg Reid discusses how increased Canadian defence spending could create significant opportunities for Canadian technology companies. The federal government’s new investment comes at a time when Canada is facing growing security concerns in the Arctic and an increasing need to protect critical underwater infrastructure, including subsea cables and other assets.

The simple truth is that you can’t protect what you can’t see, and Canada needs advanced tools to properly monitor its underwater domain.

Reid argues that increased funding needs to translate into actual capabilities, emphasizing the importance of “procure and deploy” rather than simply increasing defence budgets. He highlights the potential of Canadian-developed technologies to strengthen national security while also creating high-value jobs and intellectual property domestically. 

When companies like Kraken grow, they hire engineers, scientists and technicians. Our suppliers bring in more staff and invest in equipment, and their employees spend more money in their communities. A rising tide lifts all ships.

He also highlights the role of autonomous and uncrewed technologies in expanding Canada’s ability to monitor and understand its maritime environment.

Reid points to the broader geopolitical environment and Canada’s responsibility to strengthen its own capabilities. 

With this new government funding, we have a chance to correct course. As the U.S. appears to pull back from NATO, Canada and other NATO countries have a responsibility to step up and safeguard their own waters and coastlines

For Kraken, Reid sees the increased investment as an opportunity to scale Canadian innovation while supporting Canada’s defence priorities. 

Article: Canada’s Defence Firms Are Ready to Boom – Macleans.ca