Australia Signs $2.5B Radar Deal With Canada

Australia and Canada just signed a historic $2.5 billion deal that marks the largest defense export in Australian history. Canada is buying Australia's powerful over-the-horizon radar system to monitor the vast Arctic region.

The technology isn't new, but it's proven. Australia's JORN radar has been watching the country's northern approaches for 40 years, providing surveillance coverage across distances up to 3,000 kilometers. Now Canada wants that same capability to keep watch over its Arctic territory.

Canada's Defense Procurement Secretary Stephen Fuhr called the deal a significant shift in the relationship between the two countries. "As the world adjusts to its new strategic and economic realities, I can't think of a stronger partner to work with than Australia," he said.

Defense manufacturer BAE Systems will build the Canadian system, with Canada setting aside $6.5 billion total for the project. The network could expand even further in coming years.

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles pointed out that the benefits flow both ways. Australia gains billions in export revenue, but also gets to share expertise with Canada as both countries develop the technology further.

The deal signals Canada's interest in diversifying its defense partnerships beyond heavy reliance on the United States. Australia is open to selling the radar to other close allies, though Marles emphasized the sensitivity of the technology, calling it "exquisite" with impressive intellectual property.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership creates more than just a business transaction. It strengthens ties between two democracies committed to protecting their territories while building each other up.

The Canadian team is also eyeing another Australian innovation during the visit. Fuhr plans to inspect the Ghost Bat, a highly capable drone that operates alongside fighter aircraft like the F-35. With a range of about 3,700 kilometers, the drone handles intelligence and reconnaissance missions and can carry weapons.

Germany has already shown strong interest in acquiring Ghost Bat drones. Canada's curiosity suggests another potential partnership on the horizon. "Collaborative combat aircraft are a thing, and it seems like Australia has a bit of a lead there," Fuhr said.

The message is clear: when countries invest in each other's strengths, everyone gets stronger together.