Newfoundland and Labrador promotes defence industry at Halifax exhibition

Newfoundland and Labrador is promoting its defence, aerospace and security industries as the province looks to attract new investment and partnerships.

Premier Tony Wakeham and Jobs, Growth and Rural Development Minister Lin Paddock attended the Canadian Defence, Security and Aerospace Exhibition (DEFSEC Atlantic) in Halifax this week to showcase the province’s capabilities.

The provincial government highlighted Newfoundland and Labrador’s strategic North Atlantic location, military infrastructure, skilled workforce and experience in aerospace, marine and harsh-environment operations.

Key assets include 5 Wing Goose Bay, deepwater ports, ocean technology expertise, critical minerals, research and development capacity, and the province’s established marine and offshore industries.

The government also pointed to Labrador’s potential for future defence and industrial development, saying increased access to clean, reliable energy under the new Churchill Falls agreement could help attract investment and support opportunities connected to 5 Wing Goose Bay.

The province also emphasized that strengthening Arctic and northern sovereignty requires investment in northern communities, including services, infrastructure and economic opportunities, alongside military capabilities.

Meanwhile, two Newfoundland and Labrador companies received recognition at the 2026 Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Association Industry Excellence Awards.

Avalon Holographics received the Innovation Leader Award, while SmartICE was recognized with the Workforce Culture and Leadership Excellence Award.

The provincial government says the awards highlight the innovation and expertise within Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing aerospace and defence sector.

More information about the province’s defence industry is available at BuiltForDefence.ca.