Background of The CTA Germany-Finland Maritime, Defence

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 The maritime safety and security subsector in Germany and other European countries, including Finland, is  transforming in response to intensifying geopolitical tensions. 

Many European nations have been prompted to rapidly modernize their maritime defence capabilities due to

• Russia’s continued aggression
• heightened activity in the Baltic and North Sea
• increased use of hybrid and cyber threats

This shifting landscape has created an urgent need for innovative, dual-use technologies that enhance maritime domain awareness, resilience, and rapid response, such as: autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), drones, advanced radar, lidar and sonar systems, robust cybersecurity.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into surveillance and decision-making systems is also becoming critical to secure maritime borders and protect critical infrastructure.

These developments align with broader NATO strategic objectives, particularly the alliance's renewed focus on strengthening its northern and eastern flanks. The European Union (EU) is also significantly increasing investments in defence innovation and port security. This initiative will focus on making sure member states and allied partners like Canada can work together more effectively.   

Canadian companies are uniquely positioned to address these challenges through cutting-edge technology and proven expertise. This CTA program is a joint initiative with the Embassy of Canada to Germany in Berlin, and the Embassy of Canada to Finland in Helsinki. 

The program selects cohort of 10 Canadian companies to participate in business development activities focused on the German and Finnish maritime safety and security markets. The program is supported by key industry multipliers from Canada, Germany and Finland. 

 Potential local partners and clients in Germany and Finland include:

• maritime and port authorities
• shipping and logistics leaders
• defence and security firms (OEMs)
• research and development institutions
• telecommunications and information technologies (IT) providers
• navy
• coast guard 

This is a timely and strategically important opportunity for Canadian tech companies to engage directly with the evolving maritime security ecosystems in Germany and Finland and contribute to allied efforts in safeguarding shared waters.