Prime Minister Mark Carney has named Jeremy Hansen as a special adviser on space, coinciding with the United States acknowledging Canada’s shift in space partnerships towards Europe. Hansen expressed his enthusiasm for serving Canada in this capacity, emphasizing the potential to enhance sovereignty, security, and global contributions. The position involves providing counsel to Carney and Industry Minister Mélanie Joly.
Having participated in the Artemis II mission in April, Hansen, alongside three astronauts, journeyed further into space than any previous human exploration. Joly revealed that Hansen suggested crafting a new space strategy upon his departure from the Canadian Space Agency, aiming to accelerate innovation and strengthen international collaborations.
While details regarding Hansen’s role specifics remain undisclosed, Defence Minister David McGuinty recently announced a $20-million agreement for utilizing a space launch complex in southern Newfoundland, complementing a prior agreement in March involving a facility in Nova Scotia. This initiative aims to ensure reliable satellite launch capabilities even amidst global uncertainties.
Amid Canada’s endeavors to bolster cooperation with European nations in space, U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra highlighted at the SpaceBound 2026 Conference that Canada is steering away from partnering with SpaceX, favoring engagements with the European Space Agency instead. Hoekstra emphasized the U.S.’s inclination towards private sector involvement in space activities, citing competition as a driver of excellence.
Additionally, Hoekstra referenced the F-35 jet as a leading fighter globally, hinting at Ottawa’s reconsideration of F-35 procurement plans amid trade disputes with the U.S. He underscored the importance of Canada’s decisions regarding aerospace collaboration through NORAD and highlighted U.S. security interests in the Arctic region. Hoekstra reiterated the U.S.’s readiness to collaborate with Canada while emphasizing their proactive stance in international affairs.
