TELESAT LANDS $1.63 BILLION CANADIAN DEFENSE CONTRACT

Canadian satellite operator Telesat has secured a $1.63 billion defense contract, according to SpaceNews. The deal will fund an expansion of the company’s Lightspeed low‑Earth‑orbit (LEO) network, increasing the planned constellation to 225 spacecraft and bolstering Arctic communications for the Canadian military.

The award, announced by SpaceNews, provides the capital needed to grow Lightspeed’s reach in the polar region. With the additional satellites, Telesat will enhance real‑time connectivity for defense assets operating in remote Arctic locations. The contract’s value reflects a growing demand for secure, high‑bandwidth links in northern Canada.

Lightspeed was originally designed to deliver global broadband to underserved regions; the new contract shifts focus toward national defense infrastructure, positioning Telesat as a key player in Canada’s strategic communications capability.

• Telesat received a $1.63 billion Canadian defense contract from SpaceNews.
• Contract funds expansion of Lightspeed LEO network to 225 satellites.
• Upgrade will improve Arctic communications for Canadian military operations.

Read the original source for full detail available at SpaceNews src