- Draganfly’s (CSE:DPRO) chief executive testified before a Senate committee on how defence procurement must adapt to modern conflict and emerging technologies
- The testimony emphasized the need for faster, more flexible procurement processes to support autonomous systems and scalable deployment
- Priorities outlined included recognizing domestic tech firms as national assets, scaling pilot programs into operational capability, and strengthening industry–operator ecosystems.
- Draganfly stock (CSE:DPRO) opened trading at C$8.00
As Canada reassesses its defence readiness, industry leaders are urging lawmakers to modernize procurement frameworks to better support rapid innovation and domestic capability.
A developer of drone solutions and unmanned systems, announced today that its chief executive officer, , appeared before the Standing Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs to discuss Canada’s evolving defence landscape and the role of domestic industry in strengthening national capability.
During his appearance, Draganfly (CSE:DPRO) CEO, Cameron Chell provided insights drawn from Draganfly’s experience operating in allied defence markets, particularly within the United States, and addressed how procurement approaches are adapting to modern security challenges. He emphasized that contemporary conflict environments increasingly demand speed, scalability and adaptability, placing pressure on traditional procurement frameworks.
Chell highlighted differences between Canadian and allied procurement processes, noting that some partner nations have moved more quickly to deploy emerging technologies such as autonomous systems and advanced drone platforms. While acknowledging Canada’s strong technical foundation, he said modernization of procurement frameworks and decision‑making processes would be necessary to ensure competitiveness and to meet evolving defence commitments.
According to Draganfly, Chell stressed the importance of aligning procurement timelines with operational realities, where rapid deployment and iterative development are becoming increasingly central to defence effectiveness. He noted that lengthy approval cycles can limit the ability to respond to rapidly changing security requirements and technological advancements.
As part of his testimony, Chell outlined three strategic priorities he believes should underpin Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy. These included recognizing Canadian technology companies as strategic national assets, establishing clear economic pathways that allow successful pilot programs to scale into formal purchase orders and deployable capabilities, and building integrated ecosystems that connect industry participants more directly with operators and supply chains.
“Weapons can win a battle—but industrial capacity wins wars and ensures sovereignty,” he added in a media statement. “Canada has world-class innovation and talent. What is required now is decisive alignment between policy, procurement, and industry to ensure that Canadian capabilities are not only developed here—but deployable, scaled, and able to be relied upon when it matters most.”
Chell also emphasized the potential benefits of closer collaboration between government, industry and end users to accelerate innovation while retaining domestic expertise. He suggested that a more cohesive ecosystem could improve readiness while supporting the growth of Canada‑based defence technology firms.
Draganfly Inc. develops and manufactures drone platforms and related systems used across commercial, public safety and defence applications. The company said its perspective reflects ongoing engagement with international defence customers and suppliers, providing insight into how procurement models are evolving globally.
The Standing Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs examines issues related to Canada’s defence policy, military capabilities and national security preparedness. The committee’s ongoing work includes reviewing how Canada can adapt its defence strategy to respond to emerging threats and technological change.
Draganfly stock (CSE:DPRO) opened trading 1.13 per cent higher at C$8.00 and is over 120 per cent higher compared to this time last year.
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