NORAD and NORTHCOM Discover AI and Aerospace Innovations During Visit to Communitech

NORAD, while often recognized for its Christmas Eve Santa tracking, has broader responsibilities as the North American Aerospace Defense Command, which monitors air and sea threats. Lieut.-Gen. Blaise F. Frawley, NORAD's deputy commander, recently visited Waterloo Region to engage with local tech innovators about leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to modernize and enhance defense operations across North America. This visit, organized by Communitech, included a roundtable discussion with 17 startups involved in areas such as ethical AI, robotics, flight systems, and cyber-resilience tools.

Frawley expressed his surprise and admiration for the local technological expertise, stating that the Waterloo region stands at the forefront of AI innovation in Canada. This visit was a part of a broader initiative to explore AI’s role in improving binational security. Frawley emphasized the importance of including Canadian voices in the dialogue about future defense technologies, especially considering that previous visits by NORAD to leading AI firms had focused primarily on the U.S.

During his time in Waterloo, Frawley toured the Innovation Arena at the University of Waterloo, which showcases startups and researchers who are expediting advancements in health and tech systems. The companies represented in the roundtable, including Ample Insight, Cohere, and Real Life Robotics, are known for their work in dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and defense purposes. The region's unique position as a hub for such innovative applications is bolstered by organizations like the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics and NAVBLUE, an Airbus subsidiary.

Frawley noted that AI is transforming various sectors, but its integration into military and defense has been relatively slow. He pointed out that traditional procurement models are ill-suited for the rapid evolution of AI systems, which often require quicker adaptation than the decades-long lifespan of conventional military hardware. Frawley declared, “It’s as much about culture as it is physically having the tools in front of us,” underscoring the need for shifts in organizational practices alongside technological advancements.

Many startup leaders echoed his concerns, identifying barriers in testing and scaling new technologies. They advocated for more agile procurement processes that would facilitate the integration of local innovations into national and international defense frameworks. Frawley acknowledged the necessity of collaboration, stating that several startups he encountered during his visit could align well with NORAD's objectives.

To further these discussions, NORAD and USNORTHCOM plan to host an Industry Day on June 13 in Colorado Springs, where government, military, and industry leaders will converge to explore future mission requirements and technological solutions across North America. Overall, Frawley’s visit represents a commitment to enhancing bilateral defense capabilities through innovation, acknowledging the critical contributions of Canadian tech firms in this evolving landscape.