# Canada and EU Explore Montreal Defense Cooperation

At the October 29–30, 2026 Canada–EU summit in Montreal, the parties are considering closer cooperation on satellite services, Arctic maritime capabilities, and critical-material supply chains. The draft statement does not announce new troop deployments or weapons purchases, but it points to potential follow-on procurement activity involving access to Galileo, possible Canadian participation in the IRIS² satellite communications project, resource stockpiling, and Arctic capabilities. Separately, Canada has previously announced intentions to acquire up to 12 submarines and six airborne early warning and control aircraft, with Saab identified as the preferred candidate for the aircraft.

- Companies in satellite services and communications can assess potential opportunities tied to Canadian access to Galileo and participation in IRIS²; the summit signal describes these as areas under consideration, not awarded contracts.
- Defense suppliers may find opportunities related to Arctic maritime capabilities and critical-material stockpiling, although the draft statement provides no specific requirements, funding, or solicitation details.
- Contractors tracking Canadian defense procurement should distinguish these discussions from the previously announced plans for up to 12 submarines and six airborne early warning and control aircraft; Saab is the identified preferred candidate for the aircraft.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** October 29, 2026

### Government Entities
- Government of Canada
- European Union (EU)
- European Commission (EC)

### Vendors
- Saab (Preferred candidate to supply six airborne early warning and control aircraft)

### Sources
- [At pivotal summit, Canadian-European security cooperation is a central focus - Defense News](https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2026/10/29/at-pivotal-summit-canadian-european-security-cooperation-is-a-central-focus) - Defense News