Lt.-Gen. Darcy Molstad, the head of Canadian Joint Forces Command (CJFC), emphasized the military’s urgent need for more affordable, autonomous, and reusable weapons systems and equipment to address increasing global threats. Speaking at the Canadian Robotics Council 2026 Symposium, Molstad informed Canada’s tech industry of upcoming purchase orders amid a significant overhaul of key military platforms.
Addressing a gathering of robotics entrepreneurs in Toronto, Molstad praised the untapped potential of the Canadian industry, highlighting the versatility of robotics when combined with artificial intelligence (AI). His remarks align with ongoing discussions among world leaders and tech executives on managing the rapid evolution of AI securely.
While drones are commonly associated with combat operations, Molstad outlined various applications of autonomous technology within the military, such as medical diagnostics, supply chain management, and automated vehicle inspections. He emphasized the need to modernize supply depots and diversify defense technologies to meet contemporary threats effectively.
Molstad revealed that CJFC has identified 399 pre-qualified vendors for the Defense Drone Initiative, signaling a shift towards integrating new technologies into Canada’s defense strategy. Stressing the importance of rapid modernization to enhance deterrence capabilities, Molstad underlined the military’s commitment to empowering personnel with cutting-edge tools.
Accompanied by Duncan Stewart, a strategic advisor to the Canadian Armed Forces, Molstad highlighted the challenges of engaging with a government that traditionally moves slowly in adopting new technologies. Stewart emphasized the role of agile small firms in driving innovation, particularly in autonomous systems.
The Defense Drone Initiative exemplifies the government’s shift towards collaborative and innovative procurement practices, fostering closer industry partnerships to address classified threats effectively. The recently unveiled defense industrial strategy aims to boost domestic defense contracts and strengthen Canada’s military capabilities while countering external influences.
Drawing on his aviation experience, Molstad urged robotics and AI entrepreneurs to prepare for an accelerated procurement process, paralleling the demands of military operations. The military’s embrace of autonomous systems, according to experts like David Perry, signals a necessary adaptation to match adversaries’ capabilities while ensuring human oversight of AI-powered technologies.
Looking ahead, Molstad predicted a continuous stream of requests for robotic and autonomous systems in the coming years, reflecting the military’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. Recent partnerships, such as the Canada-Ukraine agreement, underscore the global shift towards unmanned systems in modern warfare.
As Canada continues to explore the potential of robotic and autonomous technologies, Molstad emphasized the importance of responsible deployment guided by robust policies and oversight mechanisms.
