Canada opens Calgary quantum defence hub with AUD $20m

Canada has launched the Quantum Defence Innovation Secure Hub in Calgary. A University of Calgary-led consortium will run the project, backed by AUD $20.3 million in federal funding over two years.

The new hub sits within the Bureau of Research, Engineering and Advanced Leadership in Innovation and Science, known as BOREALIS. It is intended to provide a secure setting where government, industry, academia and other innovators can work on defence-related quantum technologies.

The centre will focus on four areas: quantum sensing, quantum communications, quantum algorithms and quantum hardware assurance. Its remit includes developing navigation tools that do not rely on Global Navigation Satellite Systems, spoofing detection, secure communications and timing systems, decision-support tools, and testing and validating quantum devices and systems.

Network expansion

The move adds a third site to Canada's Defence Innovation Secure Hub network. It follows the Maritime DISH pilot and the Uncrewed Systems DISH, as Ottawa expands a model designed to connect researchers and companies with defence users in secure environments.

Quantum technologies have become a growing priority for defence planners as militaries seek new ways to improve sensing, communications, navigation and computing. Canadian officials have identified quantum as one of the country's sovereign capability priorities under its Defence Industrial Strategy.

Ministers presented the Calgary hub as part of a broader effort to strengthen domestic research and industrial capacity in strategically important technologies. They also linked the programme to military readiness and to reducing vulnerabilities in contested environments, including threats such as GPS spoofing.

David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, said the work would require close coordination between public institutions and private-sector participants.

"Quantum will shape the next generation of defence capabilities, and Canada must be prepared to lead - not follow. Through the Quantum Defence Innovation Secure Hub, we're bringing together Canadian researchers, innovators, industry and government to accelerate Made-in-Canada quantum technologies into mission-ready capabilities that strengthen the operational advantage of the Canadian Armed Forces while growing Canada's sovereign defence industrial base," said David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence.

Industrial focus

The University of Calgary-led consortium will establish and operate the site, bringing together organisations from Canada's quantum, defence and innovation sectors. The arrangement reflects a familiar model in defence innovation policy, in which governments seek to move research outputs into deployable systems through shared facilities and closer links with end users.

For Canada, the challenge is not only technical but industrial. Officials have increasingly stressed the need for domestic control over critical technologies, particularly in areas where geopolitical rivalry and supply-chain risks can limit access or create strategic dependence.

Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, echoed that emphasis.

"Quantum technologies are shaping the future of security, economic growth and innovation. This investment will help Canadian researchers and businesses develop next-generation solutions to address defence and security challenges while creating high-value jobs across the country. By investing in Canada's world-class quantum ecosystem, we are strengthening our economic resilience and reinforcing Canada's leadership in one of the world's most strategic technologies," said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.

The government also framed the investment as part of a wider technology agenda linking defence, innovation and economic policy. In that context, the hub is expected to serve not only military users, but also the research base and companies trying to commercialise advanced quantum work.

Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, pointed to the practical side of that transition from research to deployment.

"Ensuring Canada remains secure in an increasingly complex global environment requires us to invest in the technologies that will shape the future. This support will help accelerate the development and adoption of advanced quantum solutions that will provide the Canadian Armed Forces with new tools to address emerging challenges. By bringing together researchers, industry and defence partners, we are helping translate breakthrough discoveries into capabilities that can make a real difference," said Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

Regional impact

Provincial and local figures highlighted Calgary and Alberta as beneficiaries of the investment, noting the region's role in Canada's defence and innovation landscape. The choice of Calgary also reinforces the city's position in quantum research, particularly through the university and the Quantum City initiative.

"With access to land, a skilled workforce and a drive for innovation, Alberta holds a position of strength in growing Canada's defence capabilities. This investment from the federal government into the University of Calgary is a big step for Alberta's role in Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy. Our government is committed to partnership that strengthens Canada, increases security and leads to economic prosperity," said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.

"This investment is a testament to the incredible talent and innovation ecosystem we have here in Calgary. By bringing together researchers, industry and government, the Quantum Defence Innovation Secure Hub will help create new opportunities for our community while reinforcing Alberta's leadership in the technologies of tomorrow," said Corey Hogan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.

Research base

University leaders said the hub would build on existing work in strategic studies, military scholarship and applied research tied to defence and security.

"We thank the Government of Canada for this transformational investment at the University of Calgary and Quantum City. UCalgary has a long history of excellence in strategic studies, military scholarship and applied research in defence- and security-related fields. The Quantum DISH is the next step in this journey of discovery, building on UCalgary's strengths in quantum computing, sensing and communications. The consortium of post-secondary and industry partners that will innovate in this new facility is truly world-class, and we look forward to working alongside the Government of Canada to translate quantum technologies into real-world solutions that will strengthen Canada's sovereignty," said Edward McCauley, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Calgary.