This marks the first overseas sale of the Over-the-Horizon Radar technology, designed to enhance Canada’s Arctic surveillance capabilities.
Over-the-horizon radar systems are equipped to identify targets at significant distances, exceeding the reach of conventional radar systems. Their sophisticated detection abilities make them crucial for military and defence uses.
“Today’s agreement signifies a major milestone in Australian defence trade and sets the stage for enhanced and mutually beneficial collaboration in the defence sector with Canada,” stated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The Arctic region of Canada accounts for approximately 40% of its total land area, though it is sparsely populated and lacks substantial infrastructure. Much of Russia’s Arctic territory, roughly one-fifth of its landmass, borders Canada and the US state of Alaska.
“Canada is bolstering Arctic security with the Arctic Over-the-Horizon Radar project,” remarked Stephen Fuhr, Canada’s secretary of state for defence procurement.
“This initiative is part of a larger endeavor to establish an integrated surveillance and communications system that will enhance Canada’s capacity to monitor, comprehend, and react to activities in the Arctic.”
Australia’s Jindalee Operational Radar Network is capable of detecting and tracking aircraft, ships, and missiles up to 3,000 km away.
This technology-sharing agreement with Canada is expected to create around 300 jobs in Australia and is the initial phase of a wider collaboration between the two nations regarding the radar, according to Australia.
($1 = 1.4269 Australian dollars)
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(Edited by : Gautham Krishna)
