Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles announced a defence export deal to provide Canada with an over-the-horizon radar system today [1].

The agreement marks a significant shift in Australia's industrial capacity, establishing the nation as a primary provider of long-range surveillance technology to key allies [2].

Marles said the deal is the biggest defence export in Australian history [1]. The radar system is intended to provide Canada with expanded long-range radar capabilities [2]. According to reports, the equipment will be built in Canada [3].

There are conflicting reports regarding the financial scale of the agreement. Marles said the deal is valued at $2.5 billion [1], while other reports place the signed value at $1.75 billion [3].

Marles used the announcement to highlight the current administration's record on industrial growth. "It is not coincidence that the two largest defence exports in our country’s history have happened under the Albanese government," Marles said [1].

The over-the-horizon radar technology allows for the detection of targets at great distances, far beyond the line of sight. This capability is critical for maritime and airspace monitoring in the vast geography of the Canadian north [2].

This export strategy aims to generate significant revenue for the Australian economy, while strengthening bilateral security ties between the two Commonwealth nations [2]. The project represents a move toward diversifying Australia's defence industry beyond domestic procurement and toward high-value international sales [2].

“"This is the biggest defence export in our country’s history."”

This deal signals Australia's ambition to transition from a primary importer of military hardware to a specialized exporter of high-end surveillance tech. By securing a multi-billion dollar contract with a NATO ally, Australia demonstrates the global viability of its sovereign industrial capabilities and strengthens its strategic alignment with North American security interests.