The Québec Aerospace Strategy Horizon 2026 lays out a bold and visionary roadmap aimed at solidifying Québec’s position as a leader in aerospace and space technologies. As outlined in the document, the strategy focuses on innovation, industry diversification, strengthening value chains, and the development of next-generation aircraft and space systems. Through this strategy, Québec seeks to elevate its aerospace sector on the global stage, ensuring resilience and long-term growth.
The Significance of Aerospace and Space Technologies in Québec
Québec’s aerospace industry is a powerful driver of the province’s economy. As of the latest available data, the industry provides over 36,000 direct jobs and generates nearly $15.8 billion in annual sales. Importantly, 75% of aerospace products are exported internationally, with the industry contributing to around 10.5% of Québec’s manufacturing exports.
Recognizing its established strengths, the Government of Québec has set its sights on further integrating space technologies into the broader aerospace industry, viewing them as essential to the future of the sector. This vision aims to bring revolutionary aerospace and space systems to the market that are not only technologically advanced but also environmentally sustainable.
Strategic Priorities and Measures for Aerospace Innovation
The Québec Aerospace Strategy Horizon 2026 emphasizes three key strategic priorities:
- Shape the Future of Aerospace Through Innovation
- Diversify the Industry
- Strengthen Value Chains and Boost International Growth
Priority 1: Shaping the Future of Aerospace Through Innovation
Québec’s strategy places innovation at the heart of the province’s aerospace future. By investing in R&D, the strategy seeks to develop next-generation aircraft powered by alternative fuels and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, and it also anticipates the rise of new markets like electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL). These advancements not only meet the environmental imperatives of modern aerospace but also create new business opportunities within space technologies.
Measure 1: Design Next-Generation Aircraft and Space Technologies in Québec
The government’s role is pivotal in supporting research initiatives. The Horizon 2026 strategy envisions providing up to $225 million in investments to stimulate innovation, with $111 million in public funding allocated over three years (2021-2024). These funds will be used to support cutting-edge aerospace technologies, including advancements in energy storage, electrical propulsion, and hybrid-electric aircraft systems. Additionally, space technologies are considered an integral part of this innovation ecosystem.
Support is also extended to start-ups, with a focus on fostering disruptive technologies. By providing financial assistance and resources for pre-commercialization phases, the Québec government aims to stimulate the creation of new aerospace solutions, both for traditional aircraft and space systems.
Measure 2: Shape and Commercialize Québec Innovations
Québec’s competitive advantage lies in its capacity to turn innovative ideas into market-ready products. As part of the strategy, the government will support companies in the certification and commercialization of new technologies. This assistance is especially valuable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may lack the in-house expertise to navigate certification processes. Public and private collaboration in the development of aerospace certification standards will help position Québec’s innovations within international markets.
Measure 3: Drive Québec Innovations in International Markets
To further strengthen Québec’s position in the global aerospace and space industries, economic diplomacy will be employed to open doors to international programs and markets. Bilateral agreements with foreign aerospace hubs will provide Québec firms access to large-scale aerospace initiatives. The government plans to fund full-scale technology demonstrators and support SMEs in joining international innovation networks, with the goal of helping them establish a foothold in rapidly growing space and aerospace markets.
Priority 2: Diversifying the Industry
Diversification is central to ensuring the long-term resilience of Québec’s aerospace sector. The focus is on expanding into high-potential sectors such as space technologies, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), and security and defense.
Measure 4: Attract Key Companies and Support Large-Scale Projects of Strategic Importance
Québec aims to attract investments from major aerospace players worldwide. The government will continue to promote the industry at global trade shows and provide financial incentives for companies undertaking strategic projects in Québec.
Measure 5: Promote and Strengthen the Security and Defense Sectors
Given the pandemic’s impact on civil aviation, the security and defense sectors have proven to be more resilient. Currently, only 7% of aerospace firms’ sales in Québec come from security and defense. To capitalize on this sector, the government plans to promote R&D in defense technologies and encourage partnerships between industry players in Québec and international defense contractors.
Measure 6: Develop the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Space Technology Sectors
UAS and space technologies represent two of the most promising areas for growth. The global UAS market is expected to grow from $5 billion in 2019 to $14.5 billion by 2028, while the space economy is projected to increase from $298 billion in 2019 to $485 billion by 2028. Québec is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends, with the government investing in collaborative projects and the expansion of testing and demonstration facilities, such as the UAS Centre of Excellence in Alma.
Priority 3: Strengthening Value Chains and Boosting International Growth
Robust value chains and strong international partnerships are essential for Québec’s aerospace companies to compete in the global market. Improving the overall performance of the supply chain will help enhance international competitiveness and innovation.
Measure 7: Improve Business Performance
Québec SMEs are vital to the aerospace supply chain, yet they face challenges in achieving manufacturing excellence and scaling up operations. The government will provide resources and assistance for these SMEs to achieve digital transformation and implement automated production processes. Additionally, initiatives will help SMEs gain access to public research centers and innovation networks, enabling them to develop new technologies and compete in international markets.
Measure 8: Prepare Tomorrow’s Workforce
With thousands of workers expected to retire in the coming years, there is an urgent need to attract and train new talent in the aerospace sector. The Horizon 2026 strategy seeks to raise awareness of career opportunities in aerospace and promote the industry to younger generations. By aligning educational programs with industry needs, the government hopes to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified workers equipped to meet the challenges of the evolving aerospace landscape.
Summary
The Québec Aerospace Strategy Horizon 2026 positions Québec as a global leader in aerospace and space technologies by emphasizing innovation, diversification, and resilience. The strategy provides a comprehensive framework to advance next-generation aerospace systems and space technologies, all while ensuring the industry’s long-term growth and sustainability.
This forward-looking strategy not only promises economic benefits for the province but also aims to reduce the environmental impact of air travel, foster new technological advancements, and prepare the workforce of tomorrow. As Québec moves towards 2026, it stands ready to shape the future of aerospace and space technologies on the global stage.
