Australia has signed a record Aus$2.5 billion ($1.8 billion) agreement to export a sophisticated over-the-horizon radar defence system to Canada, marking the first international sale of the country’s advanced surveillance technology.
The Australian government described the deal as its largest defence export to date and a significant milestone in bilateral security cooperation between both nations.
Defence Minister Richard Marles announced the agreement on Monday, noting that it represents a major expansion of Australia’s defence industry footprint on the global stage.
“It is far and away the largest defence export that we have ever done,” Marles said during a news conference.
He added that the deal introduces a new strategic dimension to Australia-Canada relations, which have traditionally been close.
BAE Systems Australia is expected to begin delivery of the system on July 1, marking the first phase of a broader collaboration between both countries on long-range radar capability.
The over-the-horizon radar system uses high-frequency signals to detect and track objects at extremely long distances, providing early warning and enhanced surveillance capabilities for national defence.
According to the Defence Minister, the system forms the backbone of Australia’s northern surveillance network and is considered among the most advanced long-range radar technologies in the world.
“Just like Australia, Canada has large areas to surveil, and so Canada will use this to engage in surveillance over the Arctic,” Marles said.
The Australian government said the project will support around 300 technical jobs domestically, while Canadian officials estimate it will generate nearly 2,300 jobs annually over the next five years.
Canada’s Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, Stephen Fuhr, described Australia as a key strategic partner and highlighted the importance of the collaboration.
“We’ve stood shoulder to shoulder for generations as the world adjusts to its new strategic and economic realities. I can’t think of a stronger partner to work with more than Australia,” Fuhr said.
The agreement is seen as a major step in strengthening defence ties between both countries while expanding Australia’s role as a global supplier of advanced military technology.
