Canada tests urban C-UAS capabilities in downtown Ottawa

Canada’s Department of National Defence (DND) has successfully concluded drone detection trials over downtown Ottawa, near Parliament Hill, to test urban counter uncrewed aircraft system (C-UAS) capabilities in a controlled, scientific environment. These trials took place from November 24 to 28, 2025, as part of DND’s Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program.

The week-long event brought together defense science experts and innovators, Canadian Armed Forces personnel, police, and other defense and security partners to evaluate how well detection technologies perform in a complex urban environment. The trials were organized in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the City of Ottawa, the Ottawa Police Service, Transport Canada and additional partners. A list of participants can be found here.

“Canada’s defense and security depend on staying ahead in a rapidly changing world. Innovation is the engine that drives progress and resilience,” said Minister of National Defence, David J. McGuinty. “Canada’s future depends on investing in ideas, nurturing talent and transforming knowledge into practical solutions for complex challenges. Now more than ever, we must invest in defense by advancing cutting-edge technologies, strengthening our domestic industrial base and giving the Canadian Armed Forces the tools they need to protect Canadians.”

Read more at Unmanned Airspace