Latest news with #RCD


Express Tribune
a day ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
'Pakistan follows independent policy'
Pakistan may have good relations with the United States but that does not mean Islamabad would support Washington's actions that it deems not right, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said here on Friday, dispelling the impression that Pakistan would follow the US policy on all issues. Speaking at a news conference, Dar said there were speculations that Pakistan would not take a clear stance against the United States after it bombed three nuclear sites of Iran. But Pakistan, Dar said, issued a statement taking a firm position against such strikes. He emphasised that having good relations with the U.S. does not mean supporting them when they are in the wrong. The Trump Administration abandoned the 45-year-old policy of the United States not to launch a direct strike on Iran when it sent B-2 bombers and targeted nuclear facilities through bunker buster bombs. Pakistan condemned the US strikes and said Iran had the right to respond to such attacks. "We were aware that Iran would not remain silent without retaliating. In response, Iran targeted the US base in Qatar. Iran has now come out of this crisis with dignity after taking its revenge. The ceasefire between Iran and Israel is still holding," Dar continued. He further said that Iran appreciated Pakistan's efforts at the UN Security Council and expressed gratitude in its Parliament. During the Iranian President's address, the Parliament echoed with chants of "Thanks to Pakistan." In the background, Pakistan was extending full political support to Iran to ensure it wasn't isolated or undermined in this crisis. Dar added that particularly when the U.S. attacked Iran and Pakistan's Army Chief was returning to the country, upon Pakistan's suggestion, he stopped in Istanbul. A meeting had already been confirmed with President Erdogan. The meeting included the Field Marshal, the Foreign Minister (Dar), and Pakistan's ambassador. On the Turkish side were President Erdogan, the Turkish Foreign Minister, the intelligence chief, and senior members of the leadership. The focus of the meeting was the Iran issue. According to Dar, Iran informed Pakistan that although it was peaceful and not in favor of developing nuclear weapons, it would not refrain from responding to the US strike. Iran coordinated with Qatar before launching its retaliatory attack on the US airbase located there. The Foreign Minister also highlighted that, thanks to Pakistan's initiative, a meeting of the OIC Contact Group on Occupied Kashmir was also convened. He recalled that Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey were the founding members of RCD (Regional Cooperation for Development), which was later expanded into ECO (Economic Cooperation Organization). To a question, Dar said Pakistan would not request or ask anyone to persuade India to start talks with Pakistan. "We are not begging for talks. We are not asking anyone to persuade India to talk to us," he explained. The Foreign Minister said Pakistan was not shy away from holding talks with India. The Indian Foreign Minister said New Delhi would only engage with Pakistan on the issue of terrorism, Dar said adding that Pakistan was ready to discuss the issue of terrorism as well as Kashmir and Indus Waters Treaty. "There are 200 countries and I am sure Pakistan and India can find a suitable venue for talks," he said.


Cision Canada
2 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
Government of Canada celebrates National Shipbuilding Strategy milestones at Irving Shipbuilding Français
HALIFAX, NS, /CNW/ - Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), the Government of Canada is committed to strengthening its sovereign shipbuilding capabilities and supply chains so that the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) are equipped to conduct operations at home and alongside allies in an increasingly complex environment. Today, the Honourable Kody Blois, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, on behalf of the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, joined Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander of the RCN, and other dignitaries to celebrate significant progress on the Arctic and offshore patrol ships (AOPS) and River-class destroyers (RCD) being constructed at Irving Shipbuilding Inc. (ISI). The AOPS and RCD are critical NSS initiatives that will bolster Canada's naval strength and economic resilience for decades to come. Parliamentary Secretary Blois commended ISI on its AOPS project achievements. The AOPS project for the RCN will be completed this year, with delivery of the sixth and final ship, the future His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Robert Hampton Gray, anticipated this summer. The AOPS project for the CCG is also progressing, with the launch of the first ship, the future Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Donjek, anticipated in 2026. Construction of the second ship, the future CCGS Sermilik, continues to advance. In addition, ISI is pivoting to the future and ramping up production for the RCD project. Parliamentary Secretary Blois highlighted that full-rate production on the first RCD, the future HMCS Fraser, is now underway, with delivery of this ship anticipated in the early 2030s. The shipyard will continue to integrate lessons learned from the earlier production of an RCD test module, as well as the AOPS project, into the construction process. Beyond new ship construction, ISI is supporting the ongoing operational readiness of the RCN's Halifax-class frigates until the arrival of the RCD. The shipyard is conducting repair and maintenance activities on HMCS Halifax, with anticipated completion next year. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the NSS. Since its inception, the strategy has revitalized Canada's marine industry, fostered innovation and created a skilled workforce. NSS contracts awarded between 2012 and the end of 2024 are estimated to have contributed close to $38.7 billion to Canada's gross domestic product (GDP) and created or maintained approximately 21,400 jobs annually between 2012 and 2025. The Government of Canada remains committed to advancing shipbuilding projects that equip the RCN, the CCG and Transport Canada with modern, capable vessels. The NSS will continue to evolve through the integration of lessons learned and close collaboration with industry partners to continue to deliver important benefits for Canadians. Quotes "Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, we're building Canada's fleet of the future while revitalizing our marine industry, creating skilled jobs and fostering innovation. The Arctic and offshore patrol ships and River-class destroyers are generating economic growth in Atlantic Canada and across the country. These highly versatile vessels will ensure that the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard have the operational readiness to carry out their important work." The Honourable Joël Lightbound Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement "The River-class destroyers and Arctic and offshore patrol ships reflect real progress under the National Shipbuilding Strategy. These vessels will provide the Royal Canadian Navy with a modern, combat-ready fleet to defend Canada and support international operations. As we invest in these new fleets, we are also supporting Canada's shipbuilding industry and thousands of well-paying, skilled jobs all over our country." The Honourable David J. McGuinty Minister of National Defence "The construction of these new vessels represents more than just an investment in our fleet, it's a bold step forward in strengthening our ability to protect our waters, support our coastal communities and uphold our sovereignty. The CCGS Donjek and CCGS Sermilik are not just ships, they are a promise to future generations that we will continue to safeguard our oceans with excellence and pride." The Honourable Joanne Thompson Minister of Fisheries "Canada is building big—and building for the future—constructing world-class Arctic and offshore patrol ships and River-class destroyers right here at home. Today, we celebrate the continued progress of our talented Canadian workers. Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, we're investing in our marine industry, creating well-paying jobs, and generating real economic benefits for workers, suppliers and communities in Atlantic Canada and across the country." The Honourable Mélanie Joly Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions "Our government is proud to be celebrating the 15th anniversary of the National Shipbuilding Strategy and the substantial progress that's been made to support the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard. The Arctic and offshore patrol ships and River-class destroyers are creating skilled jobs in Atlantic Canada and generating economic benefits that will continue for decades to come." The Honourable Kody Blois Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister "Again this year, we're delivering on every one of our commitments to sustain the legacy ships of Canada's navy while building the next generation fleets. It takes all of us working in partnership to realize the objectives of Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy. Everyone here today shares in this success and in the momentum we're building." Dirk Lesko President, Irving Shipbuilding Inc. Quick facts Shipyards and companies in the Atlantic region are playing an important role in supporting the federal government's shipbuilding needs. Contracts issued under the NSS to companies in the Atlantic region are worth approximately $23.3 billion, which represents approximately 48% of the total value of NSS-issued contracts. In addition to contracts issued by the Government of Canada, companies in the Atlantic region have received close to $1.9 billion in supplier contracts from NSS shipyards to support their respective efforts. The AOPS project is estimated to contribute $459 million annually to Canada's GDP and to create or maintain 3,425 jobs annually in the Canadian economy from 2015 to 2028. The RCD implementation contract, which was awarded in March 2025, will contribute an estimated $719.3 million annually to Canada's GDP and create or maintain 5,250 jobs annually between 2025 and 2039. In 2019, the Government of Canada awarded docking work period contracts to ISI, Chantier Davie Canada Inc. and Seaspan's Victoria Shipyards to provide maintenance support services for the Halifax-class frigates. Each shipyard is responsible for sustaining a portion of the fleet until its planned retirement in the early 2040s. Through the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy and the NSS Value Proposition, the Government of Canada is leveraging defence spending to boost the economy and contribute to the long-term sustainability of its marine industry, with companies like ISI reinvesting in Canadian businesses, workforce development and innovation.


The Market Online
4 days ago
- Business
- The Market Online
MDA Space secures $60M contract for new Canadian warship sensor systems
MDA Space (TSX:MDA) has been awarded C$60 million in contracts to deliver and integrate two advanced sensor systems for the Royal Canadian Navy's River-class destroyer (RCD) program The contract marks a significant milestone in Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy, which aims to modernize the federal fleet and bolster the domestic shipbuilding industry Once completed, the RCD fleet can significantly enhance the Royal Canadian Navy's operational capabilities, supporting a wide range of critical missions both at home and abroad MDA Space stock (TSX:MDA) last traded at C$32.15 MDA Space (TSX:MDA) has been awarded C$60 million in contracts to deliver and integrate two advanced sensor systems for the Royal Canadian Navy's River-class destroyer (RCD) program. These systems are designed to enhance situational awareness and defend against laser and optically guided threats aboard the first three ships of the fleet. The contract marks a notable milestone in Canada's national shipbuilding strategy, which aims to modernize the federal fleet and bolster the domestic shipbuilding industry. The sensors will be developed across MDA Space's Canadian facilities in Richmond, British Columbia; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Brampton, Ontario. 'As a headquartered Canadian company and a long-term trusted mission partner to Canada's Department of National Defence, MDA Space is proud to work with Canada's world-leading defence industrial base to deliver next generation naval sensors for the River-class destroyer program,' Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space said in a news release. 'We value our role in helping to deliver this important fleet and capability to the Royal Canadian Navy and look forward to seeing these ships launched and operationalized in the years ahead.' The River-class destroyers, being constructed by Irving Shipbuilding Inc. at the Halifax Shipyard, are envisioned as multi-mission combat vessels equipped with cutting-edge technologies. Lockheed Martin Canada is leading the combat management system design and integration, working alongside a team that includes MDA Space, CAE, L3 Harris, Ultra, and BAE. Once completed, the RCD fleet can significantly enhance the Royal Canadian Navy's operational capabilities, supporting a wide range of critical missions both at home and abroad. MDA Space Ltd. is a partner to the global space industry specializing in robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence. The company brings over 55 years of experience across more than 450 missions, including the development of the Canadarm robotic arm system. MDA Space stock (TSX:MDA) last traded at C$32.15 and has risen 166 per cent since this time last year. Join the discussion: Find out what everybody's saying about this space and defense technology on the MDA Space Ltd. Bullboard and check out the rest of Stockhouse's stock forums and message boards. The material provided in this article is for information only and should not be treated as investment advice. For full disclaimer information, please click here.

Associated Press
4 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
MDA SPACE AWARDED $60 MILLION FOR NEXT PHASE OF RIVER-CLASS DESTROYER
BRAMPTON, ON, June 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - MDA Space Ltd. (TSX: MDA) today announced that it has been awarded next phase contracts for the delivery and integration of two critical sensor systems for the River-class Destroyer (RCD) program. The contracts, valued at $60 million, are for the delivery and integration of sensor systems for the first three ships that improve situational awareness and protect the ships against laser and optical guided threats. Once delivered, the RCD fleet will provide advanced and multi-mission combat ships, equipped with next generation capabilities to support and protect the men and women of the Royal Canadian Navy as they fulfill their wide range of critical missions. The MDA Space sensors are being designed and developed in Richmond, B.C., Halifax, N.S. and Brampton, Ontario. 'As a headquartered Canadian company and a long-term trusted mission partner to Canada's Department of National Defence, MDA Space is proud to work with Canada's world-leading defence industrial base to deliver next generation naval sensors for the River-class Destroyer program,' said Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space. 'We value our role in helping to deliver this important fleet and capability to the Royal Canadian Navy and look forward to seeing these ships launched and operationalized in the years ahead.' Irving Shipbuilding Inc. will build the new River-class Destroyers at Halifax Shipyard as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the Government of Canada's long-term strategy to renew the federal fleet and reinvigorate the shipbuilding sector vital to Canadian sovereignty. Lockheed Martin Canada is leading the combat management system design and integration team which includes MDA Space, CAE, L3 Harris, Ultra, BAE and others. ABOUT MDA SPACE Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space (TSX:MDA) is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The MDA Space team of more than 3,400 space experts in Canada, the US and the UK has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that's been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we'll take you there. For more information, visit SOCIAL MEDIA LinkedIn: X: Facebook: YouTube: Instagram: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE MDA Space


Cision Canada
4 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
MDA SPACE AWARDED $60 MILLION FOR NEXT PHASE OF RIVER-CLASS DESTROYER
BRAMPTON, ON, June 24, 2025 /CNW/ - MDA Space Ltd. (TSX: MDA) today announced that it has been awarded next phase contracts for the delivery and integration of two critical sensor systems for the River-class Destroyer (RCD) program. The contracts, valued at $60 million, are for the delivery and integration of sensor systems for the first three ships that improve situational awareness and protect the ships against laser and optical guided threats. Once delivered, the RCD fleet will provide advanced and multi-mission combat ships, equipped with next generation capabilities to support and protect the men and women of the Royal Canadian Navy as they fulfill their wide range of critical missions. The MDA Space sensors are being designed and developed in Richmond, B.C., Halifax, N.S. and Brampton, Ontario. "As a headquartered Canadian company and a long-term trusted mission partner to Canada's Department of National Defence, MDA Space is proud to work with Canada's world-leading defence industrial base to deliver next generation naval sensors for the River-class Destroyer program," said Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space. "We value our role in helping to deliver this important fleet and capability to the Royal Canadian Navy and look forward to seeing these ships launched and operationalized in the years ahead." Irving Shipbuilding Inc. will build the new River-class Destroyers at Halifax Shipyard as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the Government of Canada's long-term strategy to renew the federal fleet and reinvigorate the shipbuilding sector vital to Canadian sovereignty. Lockheed Martin Canada is leading the combat management system design and integration team which includes MDA Space, CAE, L3 Harris, Ultra, BAE and others. ABOUT MDA SPACE Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space (TSX: MDA) is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The MDA Space team of more than 3,400 space experts in Canada, the US and the UK has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that's been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we'll take you there. For more information, visit SOURCE MDA Space