Qillaq Innovations Wins IDEaS NORAD Modernization S&T Contest

Nusakan Remotely Operated Systems congratulates our partner, Qillaq Innovations, on winning the Canadian Department of National Defence IDEaS NORAD Modernization Science & Technology contest with their entry, the Arctic Operations Center for Autonomous Platforms (AOCAP).

The AOCAP concept establishes a dedicated Arctic command-and-control hub for autonomous systems, designed to extend Canada’s sovereignty and strengthen continental defence. By enabling fleets of UAVs and ground systems to operate year-round in the North, the AOCAP directly addresses the unique challenges of harsh climate, vast distances, and limited infrastructure.

A key outcome of this initiative is its focus on local Indigenous engagement — ensuring that communities in the North are active participants in both the design and operation of future autonomous platforms. This approach builds sustainable capacity, creates local opportunities, and ensures solutions are grounded in regional knowledge and priorities.

This recognition highlights Qillaq’s innovative approach to Arctic operations and the critical role of Canadian-led solutions in NORAD modernization. For Nusakan, it underscores the importance of collaboration with Northern innovators to ensure mission-ready, scalable, and affordable autonomy in one of the most demanding operational environments on Earth.

We are proud to support Qillaq Innovations in this milestone and look forward to continued collaboration on projects that will shape the future of Arctic security, Indigenous engagement, and autonomous operations.