#Canada #Ottawa #C-UAS #49North #UNWAVE

Partnership Announcement

The Memorandum of Understanding

49North, a subsidiary of MDA Space Ltd., has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UNWAVE, a prominent Ukrainian manufacturer specializing in counter-drone technologies. This strategic collaboration aims to combine resources for the joint production and support of counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS). As drone threats continue to evolve, this partnership represents a vital investment in defense strategies for Ukraine, aligning with Canada's broader initiative to bolster military support in the region.

A Strong Defense Integration Strategy

This MOU exemplifies the commitment of both parties to enhance defense capabilities. The collaboration supports the Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation signed between Ukraine and Canada in September 2026. By leveraging 49North's extensive experience in managing complex defense programs and long-term engineering support, alongside UNWAVE's expertise in advanced counter-drone systems, the partnership is well-positioned to meet Ukraine's pressing defense needs.

Joe Armstrong, the President of 49North, emphasized the importance of this collaboration by stating, "Keeping pace with evolving drone threats requires engineering, integration, and sustained support to keep technology relevant." This commitment to maintaining cutting-edge technology ensures that both firms can effectively address the unique challenges presented by drone warfare.

Proven Expertise and Operational Experience

49North brings over 50 years of trusted experience in the Canadian defense market, having successfully executed numerous defense contracts. Notably, the company has been involved in military drone operations for nearly two decades, providing Heron uncrewed aerial systems for Canadian missions in Afghanistan, as well as supporting Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations in Ukraine. This rich legacy of operational success positions 49North to assure that integration and support of C-UAS technologies can be managed reliably and effectively in challenging environments.

Strengthening Ties Between Canada and Ukraine

The collaboration is not only a response to the rising concerns over drone threats but also a significant step toward reinforcing the industrial and defense relations between Canada and Ukraine. By focusing on the integration of autonomous systems and advanced mission-critical technologies, the partnership is set to foster innovation and enhance security frameworks in defense applications. This is particularly relevant given the current geopolitical climate where enhancing national security capabilities is crucial.

Future Prospects and Opportunities

The MOU between 49North and UNWAVE signals an optimistic outlook for future projects. Both companies are poised to explore additional commercial arrangements and opportunities as they advance joint production and integration efforts of counter-drone systems. Their combined strength aims to contribute significantly to addressing not only immediate defense needs but also to create a robust industrial framework that supports long-term initiatives.

As the complexity of modern warfare increases, partnerships like the one between 49North and UNWAVE become essential. They not only enhance immediate operational capabilities but also pave the way for future innovations in defense technology. Both companies are dedicated to adapting to the ongoing changes in warfare, ensuring that they stay ahead of emerging threats and continue to deliver superior defense solutions.