CADSI is the national voice of Canada’s defence, security, and emerging technology sector. We represent Canadian companies to decision-makers in Ottawa and across allied nations at a defining moment for Canada’s industrial sovereignty.
CADSI advocates to federal decision-makers in support of a vibrant, resilient, and sustainable defence industrial landscape.
From startups to prime contractors, CADSI members represent the full spectrum of Canada’s defence industrial base.
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), system integrators, and technology leaders delivering advanced capability across land, sea, air, cyber, space, and digital systems.
Agile Canadian firms strengthening supply chains, advancing niche capabilities, and scaling innovation in support of sovereign defence priorities.
Cyber, AI, quantum, space, autonomous systems, and dual-use innovators driving next-generation capability for Canada and its allies.
Federal departments, agencies, and the Canadian Armed Forces are our partners in strengthening Canada’s defence readiness, industrial resilience, and sovereign control of critical capability.
CADSI drives impact through informed advocacy, structured engagement, and industry-led insight
We bring industry expertise to government as Canada modernizes procurement, and prioritizes sovereign capability areas. Our members help shape frameworks that support Canadian production, IP ownership, and long-term industrial growth.
Through exclusive briefings, forums, and flagship events, CADSI creates structured engagement between industry, the Canadian Armed Forces, and federal leaders. We help provide the long-term demand signal and visibility Canadian firms need to invest with confidence.
We champion fair, transparent, and predictable policy environments that allow Canadian companies, from SMBs to OEMs, to thrive, compete globally, and deliver trusted capability to Canada’s allies.
CADSI works alongside the Government of Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces to strengthen national defence and industrial sovereignty. We connect decision-makers directly with the companies designing and delivering sovereign capabilities. We provide industry insight that supports strategic procurement, innovation policy, workforce development, export growth, and supply chain resilience.
In partnership with allied governments and NATO counterparts, we support interoperability, shared production, and export growth while advancing Canadian economic and security interests.
A proud history of adapting to meet Canada’s defence and security needs.
Canada’s defence industry roots take shape with the founding of the Defence Manufacturers Association of Canada (DMAC) to support Canadian manufacturers producing military supplies and other essential goods before and during the Second World War.
Following the evolution of DMAC, the Canadian Defence Preparedness Association was formed as a Canadian chapter of the American Defense Preparedness Association, marking a new era of national coordination between government and industry.
The association becomes fully independent, officially adopting the name Canadian Defence Preparedness Association (CDPA) and expanding its mandate to reflect Canada’s growing domestic industrial capability.
The CDPA merges with the Canadian Defence Industries Association, bringing together industry stakeholders under a single, stronger national voice. This union creates a unified platform for collaboration, advocacy, and engagement with government and international allies.
Canada’s premier defence trade show debuts with just 52 exhibitors, laying the foundation for what would grow into the largest defence, security, and emerging technology event in the country.
The association evolves into the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) to reflect the integration of national defence and sovereign security interests.
CADSI integrates next-generation and dual-use technologies into its events and member services, marking the industry’s growing digital transformation.
In response to the growing importance of digital and cyber capabilities, a dedicated space for innovation, cyber, and dual-use technologies is introduced at CANSEC. Today, these firms are fully integrated on the CANSEC show floor.
CADSI represents over 1,700 member companies across defence, security, and emerging technology. We drive collaboration between government and industry to strengthen Canada’s national security, sovereign capability, and reinforce the nation's role as a trusted defence partner.
We operate through open, evidence-based, and member-driven engagement.
Excellence
Advancing Canadian defence capability and industrial strength to benefit all Canadians.
Integrity
Transparent, ethical, and accountable advocacy.
Innovation
Championing cutting-edge technologies and digital transformation.
Collaboration
Aligning industry and government to deliver capability.
National Security
Supporting a strong, sovereign, and secure Canada.
Partnership
Strengthening cooperation with the Government of Canada and international allies to deliver on shared defence and security priorities.
Transparent, democratic, and accountable governance ensures CADSI represents the full breadth of its membership.
Subject-matter experts guiding specialized initiatives in cyber, procurement, and emerging technologies.
Professional staff leading daily operations and strategic initiatives.
Member-led working groups driving sectoral priorities and policy recommendations.
Subject-matter experts guiding specialized initiatives in cyber, procurement, and emerging technologies.
CADSI is committed to ensuring Canada maintains a strong, resilient, and innovative defence industrial base that supports national security, economic prosperity, and allied readiness.
Explore more about CADSI's mandate, leadership, and activities
Detailed information about CADSI's official mandate and strategic objectives
Detailed information about CADSI's official mandate and strategic objectives
Detailed information about CADSI's official mandate and strategic objectives
