New Radar Satellite Contracted by the Canadian Space Agency
MDA Space has been selected to design and build a radar imaging satellite for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). The contract comes as the Canadian government reviews options for a next‑generation satellite system to replace the existing Radarsat constellation.
The forthcoming spacecraft will incorporate advanced synthetic‑aperture radar (SAR) technology, enhancing Canada’s capability to monitor the environment, support disaster response, and conduct security‑related observations. The project is intended to sustain and improve the nation’s Earth‑observation capacity.
Under the agreement, MDA Space will handle the full lifecycle of the satellite, from system architecture and hardware development to integration of the radar payload. While a precise launch window has not yet been set, delivery is targeted for the late 2020s.
- Contract awarded by the Canadian Space Agency
- Development of a new radar imaging satellite
- Part of a strategic review of future satellite systems
The selection reflects MDA Space’s extensive background in radar‑based remote sensing, built on years of delivering data to both civilian and defense customers. The company’s expertise is expected to accelerate the transition to a more capable platform.
Canadian officials have highlighted the investment as a cornerstone of the nation’s space policy, emphasizing the need for autonomous, high‑resolution radar data. The new satellite will help ensure Canada retains strategic independence in critical Earth‑monitoring functions.