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MDA Ltd. has been selected as the prime contractor for Telesat’s low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, Telesat Lightspeed. This global network aims to enhance digital connectivity for Canadians and customers worldwide. The contract, valued at approximately .1 billion, is the largest in MDA’s history. Under the agreement, MDA will design, manufacture, assemble, and test 198 satellites, with options for Telesat to purchase an additional 100 satellites.

This is the second major satellite contract awarded to MDA for a LEO constellation in the past eighteen months, demonstrating the company’s success in capitalizing on the growing demand for satellite services. MDA’s CEO, Mike Greenley, expressed excitement about the partnership with Telesat and the opportunity to leverage their talent and technology to bring the Telesat Lightspeed mission to life. He emphasized how this project solidifies MDA’s position in the rapidly expanding global LEO constellation and satellite systems market.

To meet the accelerated production rates required for high volume non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite systems, MDA will build, assemble, and test the Telesat Lightspeed satellites at their satellite manufacturing facilities in Montreal. They will leverage Industry 5.0 techniques, including artificial intelligence, automation, augmented reality, and highly-skilled assemblers.

The Telesat Lightspeed program also provides an opportunity for MDA to showcase its new software-defined digital satellite product line. This line includes advanced digital satellite products, such as next-generation on-board processors and direct radiating array antennas with digital beamforming. These innovations will offer significant cost improvements, network efficiency, and better link performance, enabling Telesat to deliver high capacity, secure, resilient, and affordable broadband connectivity worldwide.

The Canadian government is supportive of this flagship Canadian program, recognizing its potential to create high-skilled jobs and stimulate innovation in the telecom industry. The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, emphasized Canada’s commitment to solving various challenges, including bridging the digital divide, through initiatives like Telesat Lightspeed.

In anticipation of increasing customer demand, MDA plans to introduce its new software-defined digital satellite product line during World Satellite Business Week in September. The goal is to provide critical new solutions to satellite operators and prime manufacturers while significantly reducing production costs and schedule through advanced high-volume manufacturing capabilities.

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