Operating in the Arctic has long challenged defense and autonomous systems, where extreme weather, limited infrastructure, and GPS disruptions can quickly complicate missions.
Now, two Canadian firms are working to close that gap with a hybrid navigation system designed to keep autonomous platforms moving in some of the world’s harshest conditions.
Calian Group and Tessellate Robotics have joined forces to develop and test integrated positioning technology built for GPS-denied and Arctic environments.
The effort combines Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) antennas, positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technologies, and robotic software into a unified system intended to support autonomous operations.
The goal is to deliver resilient navigation that works seamlessly with modern command-and-control networks and digital defense architectures.
Beyond defense applications, the system is designed for dual-use potential, with possible applications in energy, mining, and critical infrastructure.
From Testing to Deployment
As Canada strengthens its Arctic presence and advances North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) modernization, assured navigation has become a strategic necessity.
Reliable PNT systems are critical for autonomous platforms operating in contested or degraded environments, where traditional satellite signals may be limited or unavailable.
The collaboration will begin with joint validation and field testing, culminating in the system’s first operational deployment during Operation Nanook in the Arctic this March.
“Through Calian VENTURES, we are partnering with high-potential Canadian innovators like Tessellate to accelerate the development of sovereign, deployable capability,” said Chris Pogue, president of defense and space at Calian Group.
