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Military

National Defence Minister visited CFB Suffield on Thursday during a two-day Alberta tour

Aug 10, 2026 | 10:55 AM

National Defence Minister David McGuinty visited Canadian Forces Base Suffield last week as part of a two-day Alberta tour focused on defence research, innovation and strengthening the capabilities of the Canadian Armed Forces.

McGuinty met with reservists undertaking summer training and toured the Defence Research and Development Canada Suffield Research Centre.

At the research centre, McGuinty met with defence scientists and engineers to discuss ongoing research and future Canadian Armed Forces capability requirements.

The research includes autonomous systems, counter-uncrewed aerial systems, advanced energetics, and chemical, biological and radiological defence.

McGuinty also took part in industry engagement sessions at the Suffield Research Centre.

Several companies with locations in the Medicine Hat area provided overviews of innovative technologies and their potential defence applications.

They included QinetiQ, Amtech Aeronautical, UVAD Technologies and Landing Zones Canada.

Landing Zones Canada is receiving advisory services and up to $415,000 in funding through the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program.

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READ: Medicine Hat drone company signs partnership with Airbus Defence and Space (July 22, 2026)

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The funding is intended to advance the company’s defence readiness and further develop its remotely piloted aircraft system flight-control software.

The federal government says industry engagement at the Suffield Research Centre connects Canadian companies with unique testing environments, scientific expertise and exposure to end-user requirements.

McGuinty said investments in Canadian talent, technology and military infrastructure are helping strengthen the country’s defence capabilities.

“Canada’s security depends on our ability to stay ahead of tomorrow’s threats,” McGuinty said in a statement.

“Across Alberta, Canadian Armed Forces members, researchers, innovators, and industry are helping build that advantage,” he added.

“By investing in Canadian talent, cutting-edge technology, and modern military infrastructure, we’re strengthening the capabilities our Armed Forces need to defend Canada, support our Allies, and ensure Canada remains strong, secure, and prepared for the future.”

The Suffield Research Centre is home to specialized research and development capabilities, including work involving chemical, biological and radiological defence, blast protection and injury, advanced energetics and weapons effects, autonomous systems and training.

McGuinty’s visit to CFB Suffield was part of his two-day Alberta tour, which also included stops in Calgary and CFB Wainwright.