Canada Considers Ukrainian Drone Technology to Strengthen Arctic Defense, Deepens Defense Ties with Kyiv

As geopolitical tensions rise in the Arctic, Canada is exploring the use of Ukrainian drone technologies, both aerial and underwater, to bolster the security of its northern territories. 

The Gaze reports on this with reference to Ukrinform.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Ukrainian media, Canadian Ambassador to Ukraine Natalka Cmoc confirmed that Ottawa views certain Ukrainian defense innovations as highly relevant for protecting the Canadian Arctic. “Some of the technologies developed in Ukraine could be extremely valuable in safeguarding not only Canada’s portion of the Arctic but the broader region as well,” said Cmoc.

The ambassador emphasized that Arctic security is a strategic priority for Canada, which continues to collaborate closely with other northern nations through platforms such as the Arctic Council. In addition to military considerations, she also stressed the ecological significance of the Arctic, warning that environmental degradation in the region could have global repercussions.

Natalka Cmoc also noted Canada’s increasing interest in transforming its defense cooperation with Ukraine from aid-based models to long-term investments. This includes adopting approaches like the so-called “Danish model,” which emphasizes co-production and localized manufacturing. Canada recently signed a $100 million agreement to support drone production in Ukraine.

Canadian defense firms are actively engaging with their Ukrainian counterparts. As of this week, Ukrainian companies are participating in CANSEC, Canada’s premier defense trade show, with clear objectives and targeted partnerships. According to Cmoc, several deals in areas such as drone production and armored vehicle adaptation are in the works.

She added that Canada sees the security of Ukraine and Europe as directly linked to its own. “We believe that a safe and prosperous Ukraine strengthens global stability, and that includes Canadian national interests,” Cmoc said.

In a broader multilateral context, Canada is also preparing to officially join the EU's ReArm Europe initiative later this summer, aiming to further integrate its defense posture with European allies.

As The Gaze reported earlier, Canada is considering helping to set up a new pension system for Ukraine similar to its own.