UCalgary-linked North Vector Dynamics seeks to strengthen Canada’s drone-defence game | News | University of Calgary
AI Analysis
North Vector Dynamics (NVD), a Canadian aerospace and defense startup linked to the University of Calgary, is developing next-generation counter-drone technology to bolster Canada’s air defense capabilities. The company, founded in 2022, is evolving from R&D consulting with DRDC to a full-spectrum air defense provider, focusing on a 'porcupine' defense strategy. NVD is developing missile interceptors, exemplified by the CM-70 SPEAR missile, to create a challenging defensive environment for potential adversaries.
Key Takeaways
- NVD was founded in 2022 by University of Calgary aerospace engineers and initially worked with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC).
- The company is shifting its focus to full-spectrum air defense, driven by concerns about geopolitical instability and perceived reliance on allies.
- NVD advocates for a 'porcupine' defense strategy – a layered, technologically capable defense to deter aggression.
- A key technology in development is the CM-70 SPEAR missile interceptor.
- The company highlights the need for increased domestic defense production in Canada, citing supply chain vulnerabilities exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why It Matters
Canada is actively seeking to enhance its independent defense capabilities, particularly in the rapidly evolving domain of counter-UAS technology. NVD represents a domestic effort to address this need, potentially reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and bolstering national security. The 'porcupine' strategy suggests a focus on asymmetric defense, leveraging technology to offset potential disadvantages in conventional military power.
UCalgary-linked North Vector Dynamics seeks to strengthen Canada’s drone-defence game | News | University of Calgary
May 22, 2026
UCalgary-linked North Vector Dynamics seeks to strengthen Canada’s drone-defence game
Schulich engineers bring aerospace expertise to innovations in drone and counter-drone technology
NVD's CM-70 SPEAR missile chasing down its next threat. Courtesy North Vector Dynamics
In these times of geopolitical unrest, when the military “Goliaths” around the globe increasingly move to expand their spheres of influence by aggressive means, one might think Canada is feeling its status as a “David” nation, as far as our defensive capabilities go.
So, in a world of wolves, what’s a little dog to do?
“Become the porcupine,” says Dr. Paul Ziade, PhD, CEO and co-founder of North Vector Dynamics(NVD), a Calgary-based aerospace and defence technology startup company working to develop next-generation counter-drone technology. NVD’s roots are planted firmly in the University of Calgary’s Schulich School of Engineering with Ziade, an associate professor of aerodynamics (currently on leave), joining forces with his fellow aerospace engineers, Dr. Craig Johansen, PhD, also a Schulich professor, and Dr. Colin Hill, BSc (Eng)'17, PhD'22, who completed his doctorate in the field of hybrid rockets.
From left: Paul Ziade, Craig Johansen and Colin Hill
Courtesy of North Vector Dynamics
Formed in 2022 as a research and development consulting company doing business with Defence Research and Development Canada(DRDC) and other organizations, NVD has since expanded to become a full-spectrum air-defence technology company focused on adapting to the new realities of international security. Indeed, in the current geopolitical climate, even the United States, long our closest ally and top trade partner, can no longer be relied upon to have our backs on the world stage.
“Clearly, for the foreseeable future, Canada is not going to be a military superpower,” says Ziade. “But, from a defence perspective, I like to say we should become a very prickly porcupine. If anyone is thinking about making an aggressive move in the Arctic or along our shores, they might be able to succeed in the long term — hopefully, we would have allies that step up — but at least we can have enough technological capability and volume that we can make it a very painful exercise for an adversary to try.”
Chase Sanregret, BSc (Eng)'24, readys an aerial platform that will launch North Vector Dynamic’s missile interceptor.
Courtesy of North Vector Dynamics
Canada’s security concerns are a red flag that’s it’s time to become more self-reliant. “During COVID, we might have woken up and realized that supply chains are a lot more fragile than we once thought,” Ziade says. “There are certain things we ought to be able to produce domestically that we have completely outsourced to other countries. Think of the issues we had with vaccine production and securing the N95 respirator mas