Glen Lynch
CEO, Volatus Aerospace
Canada’s new defence strategy is creating opportunities for homegrown innovators to advance security and economic growth.
Historically, Canada’s defence procurement was complicated, slow, and reliant on international suppliers. But a seismic shift is happening, as Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy is prioritizing Canadian suppliers and materials. Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace, an innovative aerospace company that operates at the intersection of commercial aviation, autonomous aviation, and data, believes Canada has the talent and resources necessary to build a robust defence ecosystem. We sat down with Lynch to learn how Canadian firms are contributing to defence readiness and economic development.
How does defence readiness and capability contribute to national security and economic growth?
For more than three decades, we’ve under invested in the military, but with tens of billions of dollars available in defence procurement, investor confidence is increasing. No longer do we need to rely on foreign suppliers. The know-how to innovate and develop quality products is available in Canada, though it will take continued effort to fully develop the industrial infrastructure.
Why is procurement speed important?
Defence procurement has traditionally been slow, but the new Defence Investment Agency is simplifying the process, allowing innovation to get into the field as it’s needed. Small businesses were once excluded because they couldn’t shoulder the risk of long procurement cycles, yet it’s those same businesses that have the agility and creativity to innovate. What’s happening now is the Canadian Armed Forces are engaging directly with industry to discuss requirements. It’s very collaborative and allowing Canadian small businesses to play a role in defence readiness and economic development. It’s imperative that we don’t slow down.
Have recent shifts in the geopolitical landscape changed defence and economic sovereignty in Canada?
We’re living in somewhat uncertain times, and perhaps we’ve taken our national security for granted. If we can’t stand on our own two feet economically, we may discover we’re not able to stand at all. The default now is to use Canadian innovation to build economic and defence sovereignty. The Canadian government has also made the Arctic a priority. It’s a massive piece of real estate that we’re responsible for and that means we have to see what’s going on there. Our security and sovereignty rests on properly serving northern communities, patrolling Arctic waterways, and monitoring the environment and marine life. This requires the kind of autonomous systems and drone technology built by Canadians for Canada.
How does investment in defence support job creation and export potential for Canadian business?
Public and private investment is leading to significant job creation across multiple disciplines. Think engineering, manufacturing, administration, customer service, and maintenance facilities. In our sector alone, we are generating high paying jobs. Investor confidence is high, because the Canadian government’s Defence Industrial Strategy is fully funded and spells out the priorities. This creates credibility, especially for other nations, who see quality products being built by an industrial base backed by government. People want to do business with Canada, because we’re seen as a trusted partner. It’s an exciting and transformational moment for the country.
Learn how Volatus Aerospace is pushing the envelope on innovation at volatusaerospace.com.
