On September 29, 2025, Ottawa’s defence landscape took a decisive step forward as SEA Canada, part of SEA Group and Cohort plc Group, officially opened its new advanced manufacturing facility in the nation’s capital. With the ribbon cut by Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and British High Commissioner to Canada Robert Tinline, the launch signaled more than just bricks and mortar—it marked a strategic commitment to Canadian innovation, supply chain growth, and naval capability.
A Hub for Defence Innovation
The new facility positions SEA Canada at the forefront of launcher technology, serving as the centre of excellence for its torpedo launcher system (TLS) and Ancilia trainable decoy launcher. These systems represent critical tools for modern navies, enhancing both offensive and defensive capabilities while ensuring flexibility across NATO-standard lightweight torpedoes.
The Ottawa site is more than just a production line—it is a cornerstone for agility and precision, built to meet international standards of quality while advancing SEA’s global environmental goals. By embedding advanced production technologies, SEA Canada ensures that its Canadian facility will be able to respond swiftly to both domestic and international demand.
Keith Cunnane, General Manager at SEA Canada said: “The opening of this facility marks a major milestone for both SEA Canada and defence manufacturing in the nation’s capital. We’re proud to contribute to regional economic growth and job creation, while also supporting Ottawa’s reputation as a centre for innovation and advanced manufacturing.”
“By increasing our capacity to deliver cutting-edge launcher systems with reduced lead times, this site will further cement our position as a trusted global supplier of innovative and flexible countermeasure capabilities.”
Supporting the Royal Canadian Navy and Beyond
Initial work at the Ottawa plant is focused on fulfilling SEA Canada’s £15.1 million contract to deliver TLS units for a major Royal Canadian Navy vessel program. But this is only the beginning. With its weapon-agnostic, configurable launcher solution, SEA Canada is already eyeing global export opportunities. The system’s adaptability ensures that navies worldwide can retain supply chain control through flexible ammunition supplier options.
This dual focus on local delivery and international expansion underscores SEA’s confidence in Canada as both a manufacturing base and an innovation hub. By anchoring production in Ottawa, the company strengthens the Canadian defence industrial base while leveraging a robust supply chain of local suppliers.
Richard Flitton, Managing Director at SEA Group, said: “The new Ottawa manufacturing site represents a significant step forward for SEA Canada – expanding our manufacturing capabilities and strengthening customer service and support offer across Canada and North America. The company’s rapid and continued growth is a testament to the strength of our partnerships with the local defence community and the dedication of our talented team. We’re proud to be a part of the defence manufacturing sector in Ottawa and look forward to playing an even greater role in the region’s defence and manufacturing landscape.”
Building Canada’s Defence Future
The facility stands as a clear signal of SEA Canada’s long-term vision: to blend cutting-edge technology with Canadian expertise, creating lasting industrial and defence benefits. For Ottawa, it adds momentum to the city’s growing role as a centre for advanced defence manufacturing, positioning the capital not only as the seat of government but also as a driver of Canada’s defence economy.
SEA Canada’s Ottawa launch is more than an opening—it’s a declaration that Canada is ready to build, supply, and lead in the next chapter of naval defence.
