Canada continues to take steps toward developing an independent rocket launch capability.
I’ve previously written about the exciting developments with NordSpace and Maritime Launch Services.
And now, Canadian rocket launch startup Reaction Dynamics is receiving support from the Quebec Government to ensure its hybrid propulsion system for the Aurora rocket is built and tested in Quebec.
The Aurora rocket is being developed to deliver satellites weighing 200kg or less into low-Earth orbit.
As reported by SpaceNews.com, Bachar Elzein – Reaction Dynamics CEO & CTO – noted a defence application to the proposed launch system:
“Our proposal is a fast service dedicated to satellite operators in the commercial and defense sectors,” Bachar Elzein, Reaction Dynamics CEO and chief technology officer, said during the news conference. “The equivalent of a private-jet flight at an economy-class price. The support of the Quebec government will allow Reaction Dynamics take the steps towards our planned demonstration flight.”
Reaction Dynamics will be awarded $8 million, while Canadian software developer and engineering solutions provider Maya HTT will receive $2 million to develop tools for simulating tests of the propulsion system.
At a press conference, Quebec Premier Francois Legault noted the importance of reducing our reliance on the United States:
“Canada and European countries “can’t take the chance of hoping that if I get attacked, it might be Trump who comes to defend me,” Legault said, adding that President Donald Trump is “not a reliable partner.”
This is the kind of mindset Canada needs. Not just recognizing that the world is more dangerous, but turning that recognition into action and building up our capabilities. Quebec’s investment in Reaction Dynamics and Maya HTT is a wise move, and we should see the federal government and provincial governments across the nation take similar steps to support Canada’s space industry, military producers, and tech companies, with the goal of turning Canada into one of the most secure and prosperous nations on Earth.
Spencer Fernando
Image – YouTube