The CANSEC media kit provides everything you need to know about show access, on-site use of photography and video, keynote speeches, scrum locations and more.
2026 CANSEC MEDIA KIT MAY 27-28 2026 | EY CENTRE, OTTAWA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
03
04
05
06
President’s Welcome
Background Information
Industry Targets
Keynote Speeches
07
08
09
10
Themes
Story Ideas
New Exhibitors for 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
13
14
Media Room
Contact Information
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
02
PRESIDENT’S WELCOME
On behalf of the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI), I’m thrilled to welcome you to the 29th edition of CANSEC - Canada’s premier defence, security, and emerging technology event. This year’s show will und oubtedly be our biggest yet, reflecting a dramatic shift over the past 12 months in how the Canada’s federal government views and approaches defence. Beginning with the Prime Minister’s speech at the University of Toronto last June and culminating in the release of the country’s first Defence Industrial Strategy in February, Canada has started down a new path characterized by bold action and time-bound targets. The domestic defence industrial base has waited many years for this moment. Galvanized by government action, hundreds of companies across the country are positioning themselves to contribute effectively to the rearmament of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), the growth of the broader Canadian economy, and the strengthening of global alliances. They are here at CANSEC to show off what they can do for our nation and for the rest of the world. Our tagline this year – “ Made Here, To Defend Everywhere ” – was chosen to highlight and celebrate those contributions. We recognize that with increased interest in the defence sector will come greater scrutiny, and new opportunities to educate the public about the industry. There are exhibitors working in many of the traditional domains you’d expect, but also a large contingent specializing in emerging technologies and adjacent areas of expertise with defence applications. CADSI’s membership has broadened rapidly to encompass experts in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, textiles, medical technology, mining, construction, energy, and much more. Beyond private industry, CANSEC attracts thousands of delegates from all levels of government, the CAF, and partner nations. I encourage you to leverage this annual gathering to its fullest. We’re here to support you with the information in this media kit, and throughout your time at CANSEC. I wish you all a fantastic show,
Christyn Cianfarani PRESIDENT & CEO, CADSI
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
03
CANSEC BACKGROUND INFORMATION
300 CANSEC Event Exhibitors
1998 Event Established 15,000 Event Delegates
1,300 Companies Represented
4 Keynote Speeches
212,000 Exhibition Space Sqft
$19M Contributed to Local Economy
All 300 CANSEC exhibitors are members of the association. To become a CADSI member, you must be a Canadian registered, private-sector company with active business operations in Canada, which produces goods or provides services within Canada.
CANSEC is a global defence and security trade show, hosted annually in Ottawa since 1998. It showcases leading-edge technology, products and services for land-based, naval, aerospace, and joint-forces military units.
CANSEC is organized by the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI), which represents over 1,300 Canadian defence, security, and emerging technology companies across Canada.
CANSEC 2026 will encompass 212,000 square feet of exhibit space and is expected to welcome over 15,000 delegates across two days. Each spring, the show contributes over $19 million to Ottawa’s local economy.
CANSEC is not a conference but does feature four keynote speeches during meal events.
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
04
INDUSTRY TARGETS
CANADA’S DEFENCE INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY COMMITS TO:
Increase the share of defence contracts awarded to Canadian firms to 70%
Boost government investment in defence-related R&D by 85%
Increase total Canadian defence industry revenues by 240%+
Grow defence revenues for Canadian SMBs by $5.1 billion+ per year
Increase Canada’s defence exports by 50%
Create 125,000 quality new jobs across the Canadian economy
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
05
KEYNOTE SPEECHES
This year’s keynote speakers reflect the priorities set out in Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy, with a focus on sovereignty, partnership, and industrial capacity. Open media availabilities will be confirmed closer to CANSEC.
May 27
May 28
8:30AM The Hon. David McGuinty Minister of National Defence
12:10PM The Hon. Mélanie Joly Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
8:30AM Mr. Jake Sullivan
12:10PM Sir Richard Moore*
Former Nati onal Security Advisor to U.S. President Joe Biden (2001-2025)
Former C hief of MI6 (2020-2025), Political Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (2018-2020) and British Ambassador to Turkey (2014-2017)
*Sir Richard Moore’s keynote addresses will be delivered on background, with no recording or live-streaming permitted in the meal hall. An on-the-record media availability will follow.
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
06
THEMES
Grounded in our show tagline, “Made Here, To Defend Everywhere,” CANSEC 2026 will focus on the Canadian defence industrial base’s contributions – current and potential – to national sovereignty and joint allied capability. With a renewed focus on defence at the highest levels of the federal government, domestic industry stands ready to deliver on the ambitions laid out in Canada’s first ever Defence Industrial Strategy.
INDUSTRIAL CAPACITY AND INCREASED PRODUCTION The Canadian government has committed to sourcing more defence goods and services at home. The Canadian defence sector will need to adjust in tandem, taking its cues from government in what remains a highly managed market. Ultimately, detailed investment plans (what the military will buy, how much, and when) and signed contracts will be required to expand facilities, hire more workers, and boost production.
THE ARCTIC Arctic sovereignty remains a major focus for Canada as it looks to expand its contributions to alliances like NATO and partnerships like NORAD. Both China and Russia have clear ambitions in the region, involving resource extraction and an expanded military footprint. CANSEC will host companies and Indigenous representatives who live and work in Canada’s northernmost regions and can speak to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
GLOBAL ALLIANCES Canada’s defence sector remains tightly integrated with the U.S. defence industrial base. This supply chain interdependence has its roots in the Second World War and supports the national security of both countries, along with the monitoring and safeguarding of the North American continent. However, given recent trade tensions, the Government of Canada has signaled its intent to support the diversification of Canadian defence exports to new markets abroad, and to better leverage Canada’s defence industry as a tool of foreign policy.
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
08
STORY IDEAS
If you have a story idea and need help identifying and contacting relevant companies on the show floor, a CANSEC subject-matter expert will be available to help. We encourage you to connect with exhibitors directly and explore the equipment, services and technologies produced by Canada’s expanding defence sector. Potential story ideas include:
THAT’S A DEFENCE COMPANY? Emerging technology is playing an increasingly important role in modern warfare, integrated into legacy systems and driving the development of new ones. Simultaneously, companies across sectors as diverse as energy, mining, and construction have recognized the roles they could play in securing our nation. How does the composition of exhibitors, delegates, and programming at CANSEC reflect these shifts?
BUYING CANADIAN The Defence Industrial Strategy makes it clear that sourcing defence equipment, services, and technology domestically will now be the default. In a highly managed market, what is the government’s role in making that a reality? What is industry’s role? What obstacles stand in the way?
PROCUREMENT OVERHAUL The Liberal government has made a series of ambitious moves linked to defence procurement, including the formation of the new Defence Investment Agency. What does industry think of these changes? Are there early signs that they are working? What else might improve the procurement process?
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
09
NEW EXHIBITORS FOR 2026
INDOOR
OUTDOOR
45Drives LTD Amtech Military & Automation Systems ANDRE HVAC International Inc ARA Robotique Armament Technology Incorporated AVSS - Aerial Vehicle Safety Solutions Inc.
Hensoldt Canada IcePanel Technologies Inc. Ingeno JSI MAADI Group
Beonyx Robotics inc. BRP Convergence Design Services EDISON MOTORS LTD. Ericsson Inc.
2004 134 126 2014 132 2310 2306 2000 114 102 112 2203 142 130 116 124 2303B 532
935 110 2303A 2108
4000 4114 4015 4008 2324 4609 4008 4112 4004 4110 4312 4005 4013 4010
140 104 907
MACOM Technology Solutions Manufacturers Automation Inc Motorola Solutions Canada Inc. NanoTess Inc. O-m6 Technologies Inc. Optii Corporation Pedal & Shift Phantom Photonics Inc. Rutter Inc. ServiceNow SKADI Cyber Defense Corporation Streamscan Tacteris Systems Inc.
GB EQUIPMENT INC Infiniti Electro-Optics Motrec International Movex Innovation Open Ocean Robotics Sentinel Advanced Military Solutions Sunkiss-EPI Inc. Superwake Swamp Rider LP
Bell Canada Beslogic inc. CANHEAT TACTICAL INC. Cantronic Systems (Canada) Inc. Capello AV Systems Ltd. Cohere Competition Composites Inc. Elrex Manufacturers Fairbanks Morse Defense FTG Corporation Gaia Converter Inc. GoDark Technologies Inc.
2002 2326 2309
108 128 118
2006 2034 2312 2301B 2211
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
10
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE CAN MEDIA CIRCULATE AT CANSEC? Media may circulate freely o n the show floor, in the outside display areas, in the parking lots, and in the hallways. Please refrain from entering private B2B/B2G meeting areas, which will be clearly marked. If you are unsure whether you can access a particular area, check with a CANSEC media liaison. For everyone’s security, you must always wear your media badge. WHERE ARE PRESS CONFERENCES HELD? Any scheduled scrums and press conferences during CANSEC will happen in the area directly outside the media room. A media liaison will alert media ahead of scrums and ensure they have time to get to the designated area. Unlike past years, CANSEC 2026’s media availabilities and scrums will not take place in the Media Room itself. This change was made to allow more space in the Media Room for journalists and their equipment - ensuring they can work uninterrupted. HOW CAN I REQUEST ONE-ON-ONE INTERVIEWS? Brief one-on-one interviews with CADSI’s President and CEO, Christyn Cianfarani, are possible during CANSEC or in the days/weeks leading up to the show. All requests can be made through CADSI’s Director of Communications (media@defenceandsecurity.ca). Individual interviews with government/departmental officials, ministers, keynote speakers, or company representatives must be requested through the usual media relations channels specific to that department, minister’s office, individual, or company. CANSEC media relations staff can help you identify the right person to contact.
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
11
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS HALL 5? Hall 5 is a large exhibit area purpose-built onto the rear of the EY Centre, accessible at the rear of Hall 4. It will play host to companies specializing in emerging and disruptive technologies, as well as the CNASEC Spotlight Presentation Stage and the show’s largest Indigenous business delegation to date. WHERE CAN I SHOOT AN INTERVIEW OR STAND-UP FOR BROADCAST? We encourage media to use the area outside the front entrance to the EY Centre, the central corridor just outside the media room, or the area just outside the entrance to the meal hall on the main show floor – which offers a view down the show’s central aisle. We ask that the media not impede foot traffic on the show floor, at entrances/exits, and in the hallways.
I NEED A QUIET SPACE TO RECORD A VOICEOVER Speak directly to CANSEC media relations staff in the Media Room, who will find a quiet space for recording.
CAN I SHOOT PHOTOS AND VIDEO OF THE EXHIBITS? In general, yes. But due to security considerations, not all participants will welcome having products and employees recorded or photographed. In these cases, there will often be signage to that effect (“no photography” or similar). Before recording or photographing any person, booth or product, media should ensure they have consent. This applies to exhibits both inside the show halls and outside in the static display areas and parking lots.
12
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WILL THE SHOW PROVIDE FOOD AND BEVERAGES? A complimentary light breakfast will be available in the morning in the media room. Coffee, tea, juice, soft drinks, water, and light snacks will also be provided throughout the day. Complimentary sandwiches will be provided at lunch. Additional food and beverage options are available for purchase at the Outdoor Food Market, accessible via the exterior doors near the Media Room. WHEN ARE WHERE ARE THE KEYNOTE SPEECHES? The keynote speeches will take place in the CANSEC meal hall during the breakfast and lunchtime meals. Space has been reserved in the hall for media, with a dedicated area directly in front of the stage for photographers. A media riser will also be available for video camera operators. NOTE: The video camera riser will be positioned approximately 115 feet from the main stage. Some presentations may be watched live from the media room and audio recorded via equipment provided in the room. WHAT IS THE ENTRY PROCEDURE? CANSEC is accessible via car (dedicated, free parking and overflow lots with regular shuttles serving the main parking lot), taxi or rideshare, and light rail transit (LRT). Allow extra time to arrive on site between 7:00-10:00am each morning, when traffic is heaviest. On arrival, head for the entry door to the Welcome Centre marked “Media.” You will need to pass through a brief security check, and a member of staff will greet you. If you have pre-registered, your media badge will be waiting for you. The badge grants you full access to the show for the two days. If you leave the site, you must again pass through security and badge scanning in the Welcome Centre to re-enter CANSEC.
WHAT’S THE SHOW HASHTAG? #CANSEC2026
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
13
MEDIA ROOM
The CANSEC Media Room functions as a home base for journalists covering the show and a workspace to file stories. The food and beverage in the room are complimentary and dedicated to media. The room is set up classroom-style and can comfortably accommodate 15 to 18 journalists. There will always be a media liaison in the room between 8:00am and 4:30pm each day. Unlike past years, CANSEC 2026’s media availabilities and scrums will not take place in the Media Room. This change was made to allow more space in the room for journalists and their equipment - ensuring they can work uninterrupted.
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
14
CONTACT
MEDIA RELATIONS AND SUPPORT Monique Scotti, Director of Communications monique@defenceandsecurity.ca
Michael Charlebois, Marketing & Communications Strategist michael@defenceandsecurity.ca
MEDIA PARTNERSHIPS, ADVERTISING Fauziyah Salaud een, Marketing Specialist fauziyah@defenceandsecurity.ca
CANSEC MEDIA KIT 2026
15
CANSECCANADA.CA
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator