The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador showcased the province’s defence, aerospace and security capabilities, while promoting opportunities for new investment, innovation and new partnerships this week at the Canadian Defence Security and Aerospace Exhibition (DEFSEC Atlantic) in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
The Honourable Tony Wakeham, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Lin Paddock, Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development, attended the exhibition, highlighting Newfoundland and Labrador’s strategic location, military infrastructure, skilled workforce, industrial capacity and expertise in aerospace, marine and harsh-environment operations.
Strategically located on the North Atlantic and serving as a gateway to the Arctic, Newfoundland and Labrador is well positioned to support Canada’s defence priorities. Key assets include 5 Wing Goose Bay, deepwater ports, aerospace and ocean technology expertise, critical minerals, research and development capacity and an established marine and offshore industry.
Labrador is particularly well-positioned for future defence and industrial opportunities. Increased access to clean, reliable energy through the new Churchill Falls agreement will help attract investment, support economic growth and create new opportunities connected to 5 Wing Goose Bay.
As Canada strengthens its Arctic and northern presence, Newfoundland and Labrador believes sovereignty must be grounded in people as well as infrastructure. Arctic and Northern sovereignty cannot be defined solely by increased military presence – it must also include meaningful investment in northern communities, ensuring residents have the services, infrastructure, and opportunities needed to thrive.
Newfoundland and Labrador companies were also recognized for their achievements at the 2026 Atlantic Canada Aerospace and Defence Association Industry Excellence Awards. The Provincial Government congratulates Avalon Holographics, recipient of the Innovation Leader Award, and SmartICE, recipient of the Workforce Culture and Leadership Excellence Award. Their success reflects the innovation, expertise and leadership found within Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing aerospace and defence industry.
Discover why the province is built for defence and ready for new partnerships and investment at BuiltForDefence.ca.
Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador is built for defence. We are focused on promoting our province as a destination for defence-related investment, innovation and growth. DEFSEC Atlantic provides an ideal platform to showcase the expertise of our local businesses, strengthen partnerships and help position Newfoundland and Labrador for new opportunities that support jobs and economic development for all of us.”
Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Newfoundland and Labrador is ready to be a strong partner in Canada’s defence sector. We have the expertise, experience and strategic advantages to build on opportunities ahead. By showcasing what our province has to offer, we can strengthen partnerships and attract new investment. These efforts will create opportunities for businesses, workers and communities while supporting long-term economic growth.”
Honourable Lin Paddock
Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development
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