Canada is heading to Poland with a significant industry delegation as it looks to deepen defence cooperation with NATO Allies while opening new opportunities for Canadian defence, aerospace and advanced technology companies.
Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty will travel to Poland from September 7 to 8 to attend the International Defence Industry Exhibition (MSPO), joined by Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu. Canada has been designated the lead nation for MSPO 2026, with a trade mission comprising more than 200 organizations and nearly 500 delegates.
The prominent Canadian presence comes as the government works to strengthen the country’s domestic defence industrial base while expanding partnerships with Allies and international markets.
“Canada is strengthening its defence capabilities and the industrial base that sustains them. As lead nation at MSPO, we are showcasing what Canadian workers, innovators and companies can deliver while deepening defence cooperation with Poland and our NATO Allies. A stronger Canadian defence industry means a stronger Canada, a stronger NATO and a more secure Alliance,” said McGuinty.
During the exhibition, McGuinty and Sidhu will meet with Canadian and international businesses and stakeholders to explore partnership opportunities across defence, aerospace and advanced technologies. Their discussions will also focus on expanding international market access for Canadian companies and strengthening industrial cooperation with Allies and partners.
The mission supports Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy, including efforts to build domestic defence capabilities, establish more resilient supply chains and improve the global competitiveness of Canadian industry.
For Sidhu, Canada’s presence at MSPO also represents an opportunity to translate the country’s defence capabilities into stronger international commercial relationships.
“Canada’s defence industry contributed over $11 billion to Canada’s GDP and supports 82,000 jobs. Participating in MSPO 2026 is a chance to strengthen our defence industrial ties across Europe and showcase Canadian innovation. By deepening these trade relationships, Canada can contribute to more resilient supply chains while creating new export opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers,” said Sidhu.
Beyond the exhibition floor, McGuinty will meet with Poland’s Minister of National Defence and Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, providing another opportunity to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation between Canada and Poland.
With Canada taking the lead-nation role at one of Europe’s major defence industry exhibitions, MSPO 2026 will put Canadian companies and technologies in the spotlight while advancing the government’s broader push for stronger defence industrial partnerships at home and across the Alliance.
