Canada’s defence innovation landscape is undergoing a generational shift – and Zighra is proud to be part of it.
We’re honoured to share that Zighra has been recognized as one of Canadian Defence Review’s Top 100 Defence Companies, debuting at #98 in the 2025 ranking. While still early in our defence journey, this milestone reflects more than just company growth – it highlights the critical role of Canadian-built, dual-use technologies in safeguarding national security.
The Rise of Dual-Use, Sovereign Tech in Canada
For years, Canada has relied heavily on traditional defence primes for critical technologies. But the world has changed.
From cyber attacks targeting our critical infrastructure to GPS jamming in the Arctic and the growing threat of AI-driven disinformation, national security is no longer confined to military domains – it’s a technology contest, fought in cyberspace, in the electromagnetic spectrum, and in the algorithms powering AI.
This is where companies like Zighra fit in. As a Canadian-owned AI innovator, our technology serves both civilian and defence sectors — bringing trusted, sovereign solutions to domains that increasingly overlap:
- AI-powered RF threat detection and counter-drone capabilities.
- Multi-domain situational awareness through behavioural analytics.
- Continuous identity assurance for workforce and system protection.
These are not abstract concepts. Our solutions are already being piloted with organizations like the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Navy under the ISED ISC Testing Stream program, addressing real-world challenges in GNSS interference, cybersecurity, and identity protection.
The Broader Defence Tech Shift
Our recognition comes at a pivotal moment for Canada’s defence and security ecosystem:
✔️ Built-in-Canada is moving from slogan to execution
At last year’s CANSEC, “Built-in-Canada” was a rallying cry. Today, it’s showing up in procurement pipelines, pilot projects, and operational deployments.
✔️ Global defence investment is accelerating
The U.S. and U.K. have embraced venture-backed national security innovation. Canada is beginning to follow suit – and trusted, sovereign innovators will lead the way, particularly in AI, cyber, and electronic warfare.
✔️ Defence spending is aligning with operational readiness
After years of discussions around meeting NATO spending targets, we’re seeing procurement teams prioritize rapid, deployable, Canadian-made solutions that address emerging threats – from the Arctic to the digital battlefield.
Why Sovereign AI Matters Now
AI isn’t just a commercial trend – it’s a national security imperative. But not all AI is created equal.
Zighra’s approach is different:
- We build explainable, trusted AI that aligns with Canadian values and defence requirements.
- Our solutions prioritize privacy, security, and sovereignty, ensuring Canada isn’t dependent on black-box technologies.
- We deliver dual-use capabilities, rapidly adapting commercial innovations for defence applications.
Looking Ahead
Being named to the Top 100 is an honour – but for Zighra, it’s just the beginning.
Canada’s security challenges – from Arctic sovereignty to cyber defence — demand innovative, homegrown technologies. We’re proud to contribute through our AI-enabled platforms, and we remain committed to working alongside defence, public safety, and technology leaders to ensure Canada stays resilient in an increasingly contested world.
Built in Canada. Trusted by Canada. Ready for what’s next.