49North Awarded $3.7M Contract from General Atomics to Deliver Coalition Shared Database for Canada's Guardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Program

49North, a subsidiary of MDA Space (TSX/NYSE: MDA), received a $3.7 million CAD contract from General Atomics to design, build, integrate, and test a NATO-standard Coalition Shared Database for Canada's Guardian RPAS program.

Rhea-AI Summary

49North, a subsidiary of MDA Space (TSX/NYSE: MDA), received a $3.7 million CAD contract from General Atomics to design, build, integrate, and test a NATO-standard Coalition Shared Database for Canada's Guardian RPAS program.

The award expands 49North's role within the existing $74.4 million RPAS contract, supporting delivery of 11 CQ-9B Guardian aircraft to the Royal Canadian Air Force by 2028. Delivery of the CSD to GA-ASI is expected by August 2027.

Positive

• New $3.7M CAD CSD contract added to $74.4M RPAS program
• Expands 49North's scope on CQ-9B Guardian work packages
• Contract runs through expected delivery by August 2027
• Strengthens positioning as Canadian defence C4ISR integrator

Negative

• None.

Argus Jun 15 session

+2.28% close to close Open Argus

Details

News Market Reaction – MDA

On Jun 15, the day this news came out, MDA closed 2.28% above the previous close.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus for the Jun 15 session.

Key Figures

CSD contract value: $3.7 million CAD Existing RPAS contract: $74.4M Guardian aircraft: 11 aircraft +2 more

CSD contract value

$3.7 million CAD

Coalition Shared Database contract from General Atomics for Canada RPAS

Existing RPAS contract

$74.4M

Previously awarded RPAS contract that this award adds to

Guardian aircraft

11 aircraft

CQ-9B Guardian aircraft to be delivered to the RCAF

Guardian delivery timeline

by 2028

Target for delivering 11 CQ-9B Guardian aircraft to RCAF

CSD delivery date

August 2027

Expected delivery of the Coalition Shared Database system to GA-ASI

Historical Context

5 past events · Latest: Jun 12

5 events

1. Jun 12

   USAF contract renewal

   24h Move

   -8.3%

   49North secured renewed U.S. Air Force Global Procedure Designer contract.

2. Jun 12

   Software refresh news

   24h Move

   -8.3%

   49North announced refreshed Global Procedure Designer software meeting latest regulations.

3. Jun 02

   US space contract

   24h Move

   +1.0%

   MDA selected by BAE Systems for MEO EPOCH 2 missile warning constellation.

4. May 08

   New facility opened

   24h Move

   +1.1%

   MDA inaugurated high-volume Montréal satellite manufacturing facility.

5. May 07

   AGM results

   24h Move

   +1.1%

   Annual meeting results confirmed director elections and auditor appointment.

24h Move is the share-price change in the day after each event; other market factors may also have contributed.

Key Terms

coalition shared database, remotely piloted aircraft system, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, nato stanag 4559, +3 more

7 terms

coalition shared database technical

"to design, build, integrate, and test a Coalition Shared Database (CSD) for Canada's"

A coalition shared database is a central repository where several organizations pool and maintain the same set of records—such as safety reports, regulatory filings, threat intelligence, or clinical data—so every member can access consistent information. For investors it matters because shared databases can lower operating costs, speed regulatory compliance and decision-making, and reduce risk by giving participating companies earlier, clearer visibility into trends that affect revenue and liabilities, much like neighbors sharing a community noticeboard to spot problems sooner.

remotely piloted aircraft system technical

"Database (CSD) for Canada's Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) program."

A remotely piloted aircraft system is an unmanned aircraft together with the remote controls, software and support equipment that let a person operate it from a distance—think of a radio-controlled plane linked to a tablet and ground station that keep it flying. Investors care because these systems enable new services (surveillance, deliveries, inspections, mapping) that can lower costs or open markets, while regulatory, safety and privacy issues can create risks that affect companies' revenues and costs.

intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance technical

"store, manage, and distribute Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) data."

Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) is the collection and analysis of information—using satellites, aircraft, drones, sensors, or data systems—to monitor people, places, or events and turn raw observations into actionable knowledge. For investors, ISR matters because it drives spending on specialized hardware, software, and services that support defense, security, and analytics; think of it as a company’s “watchtower and detective” capability that can create steady contracts, recurring revenue, or competitive advantage in technology and government markets.

nato stanag 4559 technical

"networked system based on NATO STANAG 4559 standards, designed for multinational"

NATO STANAG 4559 is a NATO technical standard that defines a common, machine-readable format for exchanging electronic messages and data between military systems, similar to a universal file format or shared language that lets different software talk to each other reliably. For investors, compliance or compatibility with this standard can be a contract requirement or selling point for defense and communications companies, affecting market access, development cost and interoperability risks.

c4isr technical

"mandate to deliver multi-domain C4ISR solutions across land, air, maritime, and joint"

C4ISR stands for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance and describes the networked systems that collect information, make sense of it, and let decision-makers direct forces or assets. Think of it as a military or security organization’s nervous system and traffic-control center rolled into one. Investors care because companies that build or supply C4ISR gear and software often win long-term government contracts, drive recurring revenue, and signal exposure to defense spending and technology cycles.

combat search and rescue technical

"includes production of Certifiable Ground Control Stations, Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR)"

A military operation focused on finding and recovering personnel—such as downed pilots or isolated troops—who are trapped or stranded in active combat zones, using aircraft, helicopters, ground teams and coordinated support while under threat. Investors care because these missions drive demand for specialized equipment, training and support services, influence defense budgets and procurement, and signal geopolitical or conflict risks that can affect the revenues and valuations of defense contractors and insurers.

uav technical

"CSD interface for the NOCTUA and NANKEEN Heron UAV programs supporting the"

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is an aircraft that flies without a pilot on board, controlled remotely or by onboard software like a self-driving car. Investors care because UAVs are used across industries—delivery, agriculture, inspection, mapping, and defense—so demand, regulation, or technological advances can quickly affect revenue and costs for companies that make, operate, or rely on them. Think of a UAV as a robotic helper in the sky whose growing use can change market opportunities and risks.

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NATO-standard solution will enable real-time intelligence sharing with allied nations

OTTAWA, ON, June 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - 49North, a wholly owned subsidiary of MDA Space Ltd. (TSX: MDA) (NYSE: MDA), today announced it has been awarded a $3.7 million CAD contract by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) to design, build, integrate, and test a Coalition Shared Database (CSD) for Canada's Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) program. The award is a meaningful step for 49North as it continues to establish itself as a dedicated Canadian defence integrator, delivering sovereign capabilities that strengthen decision advantage in complex and contested environments.

This contract award is an addition to the existing $74.4M RPAS contract and further strengthens 49North's role as a key member of Team SkyGuardian Canada, alongside GA-ASI, CAE, and L3Harris WESCAM, working to deliver 11 CQ-9B Guardian aircraft to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) by 2028. The Guardian is based on GA-ASI's MQ-9B, which is on order or operating for a growing list of international defence and security forces.

The CSD is a standardized, secure, and networked system based on NATO STANAG 4559 standards, designed for multinational operations to store, manage, and distribute Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) data. The system is designed to enable allied nations to share, search, and access heterogeneous sensor data in near real-time, facilitating a common operating picture while maintaining individual national control over information. The ability to be interoperable and have secure, multi-caveat-controlled real-time information flow with allies is a critical force multiplier for military operations.

Originally planned as a separate capability, the CSD was later integrated into the RPAS program at the request of the RCAF to ensure seamless operational performance. GA-ASI selected 49North to deliver the system based on its deep experience in coalition data-sharing and its ability to integrate complex systems within mission-critical environments.

Building on more than five decades of trusted Canadian defence delivery and prime contractor execution from MDA Space, 49North brings proven operational experience in coalition data-sharing solutions, including development work on the CP-140 program and implementation of Canada's and Australia's CSD interface for the NOCTUA and NANKEEN Heron UAV programs supporting the UN-mandated, NATO-led ISAF mission in Afghanistan.

The CSD award is the latest in a growing portfolio of defence capabilities that 49North is delivering for the CQ-9B Guardian program, which also includes production of Certifiable Ground Control Stations, Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) Radio software, and Automated Targeting Classification image processing. Across these work packages, 49North is integrating advanced sensing technologies, autonomous systems, and secure digital mission systems—capabilities that reflect the company's broader mandate to deliver multi-domain C4ISR solutions across land, air, maritime, and joint domains for Canadian and allied defence customers.

The CSD system will reside in the main RPAS Ground Control Centre in Ottawa, with design, build, integration, and testing conducted at 49North's facility in Richmond, British Columbia. Delivery to GA-ASI is expected by August 2027.

This award further expands 49North's scope within the RPAS program and reinforces its growing role as a dedicated Canadian defence integrator of advanced C4ISR capabilities—delivering the engineering discipline, operational reliability, and mission assurance that Canada's defence modernization demands.

Quotes

"This award reflects the confidence that GA-ASI and the Royal Canadian Air Force have placed in 49North's C4ISR capabilities and our deep mission experience. 49North delivers sovereign, mission-critical defence capabilities for Canada, and coalition data sharing is exactly the type of high-assurance integration where our team excels. Interoperability with our allies is essential to Canada's defence posture, and the CSD will aim to ensure the RCAF can operate seamlessly in multinational environments."
– Joe Armstrong, President, 49North

"We're pleased to continue to build our partnership with 49North in the development and delivery of CQ-9B Guardian for Canada. This contract further strengthens the Team SkyGuardian alliance for Canada."
– Dan Fritz, Senior Program Director, General Atomics

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects the company's current expectations regarding future events. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the expected scope, performance and timing of work under the contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., including the design, development, integration, testing and delivery of the Coalition Shared Database, the anticipated schedule for delivery including expected completion by August 2027, the expansion of MDA Space and 49North's roles within the RPAS program, the integration of the CSD into the broader RPAS system, the ability of the CSD to support interoperability and real-time intelligence sharing among allied nations, and the expected benefits, functionality and operational effectiveness of the system for the Royal Canadian Air Force and other defence partners. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by MDA Space and 49North in light of management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors they believe are appropriate, and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of MDA Space and 49North to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons, including without limitation the risks and uncertainties detailed under the "Risk Factors" section of MDA Space's annual information form dated March 4, 2026.

Although MDA Space and 49North believe that the assumptions underlying these statements are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect and there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with the forward-looking statements. There are a number of additional risks and uncertainties affecting or that could affect MDA Space and 49North, which could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those described in, expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements or information included within this press release. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, MDA Space and 49North are not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About 49North

49North delivers sovereign Canadian defence capabilities with a focus on C4ISR and mission critical systems, strengthening decision advantage in complex and contested environments. Building on more than five decades of trusted Canadian defence delivery and prime contractor execution from MDA Space, 49North brings engineering discipline, operational reliability, and mission assurance to large, mission-critical defence programs. 49North integrates advanced sensing technologies, autonomous systems, secure digital mission systems, defence-qualified electronics, and long-term sustainment and in-service support of complex defence platforms across land, air, maritime, and joint domains. Headquartered in Ottawa, 49North brings trusted defence capability to reinforce Canada's long-term sovereignty and security.

www.49NorthDefence.com

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SOURCE 49North

FAQ

AI-generated questions and answers. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.

What contract did 49North and MDA (NYSE:MDA) announce with General Atomics on June 15, 2026?

49North announced a $3.7 million CAD contract from General Atomics to deliver a Coalition Shared Database for Canada’s Guardian RPAS program. According to 49North, this award expands its role within the broader RPAS effort for the Royal Canadian Air Force.

How large is the new 49North Coalition Shared Database contract compared with the existing RPAS contract for MDA (TSX:MDA)?

The new Coalition Shared Database contract is valued at $3.7 million CAD and is an addition to the existing $74.4 million RPAS contract. According to 49North, this increases its scope within Canada’s Guardian remotely piloted aircraft program.

What is the role of the Coalition Shared Database in Canada’s Guardian RPAS program for MDA (MDA) investors?

The Coalition Shared Database will store, manage, and distribute ISR data using NATO STANAG 4559 standards. According to 49North, it enables near real-time multinational data sharing while preserving national control, supporting interoperable operations with allied defence forces.

When will 49North deliver the Coalition Shared Database to General Atomics under the MDA (NYSE:MDA) RPAS program?

49North expects to deliver the Coalition Shared Database to General Atomics by August 2027. According to 49North, design, build, integration, and testing will occur at its Richmond, British Columbia facility before installation in Ottawa’s main RPAS Ground Control Centre.

Where will the new Coalition Shared Database for Canada’s Guardian RPAS program be located and developed?

The Coalition Shared Database will reside in the main RPAS Ground Control Centre in Ottawa. According to 49North, design, build, integration, and testing activities will be carried out at its Richmond, British Columbia facility before final delivery to General Atomics.

How does the new CSD contract affect 49North’s broader Guardian CQ-9B program work under MDA (MDA)?

The CSD contract adds to 49North’s existing Guardian work on ground control stations, CSAR radio software, and targeting image processing. According to 49North, it further broadens its defence capabilities portfolio within the CQ-9B Guardian program for Canada.