The project focuses on several areas of AI development. These include predictive maintenance for airframes and turbines, supply chain optimization, navigation in denied Global Navigation Satellite System environments, and sovereign knowledge management.
The collaboration also involves the Czech Aerospace Research Centre. The partnership is intended to reinforce cooperation across allied defence industrial bases.
The investment is enabled through Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits policy. It contributes to economic commitments linked to the acquisition and support of the CC-130J Super Hercules fleet.
Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, said: “This partnership with Lemay.ai shows how defence investments, paired with the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, can strengthen national security while also driving economic growth at home.” She added: “By leveraging this policy, Canadian companies can scale up, innovate, and create well-paying jobs, securing long term economic growth across the country.”
Kristen Leroux, Vice President and Regional Executive for Canada and Latin America at Lockheed Martin, said: “With over 85 years of presence and partnership in Canada, we are dedicated to growing and strengthening a sovereign Canadian defence industry that drives meaningful economic impact.” She added: “This investment in Lemay.ai achieves these goals, championing the development of a Canadian small-to-medium enterprise and delivering cutting-edge solutions to the aerospace and defence industry.”
Mathieu Lemay, Chief Executive Officer of Lemay.ai, said: “We’re honoured to receive this significant ITB investment from Lockheed Martin Canada to advance our research in artificial intelligence.” He added: “This partnership underscores Lockheed Martin Canada’s confidence in our team’s ability to deliver innovative AI solutions that enhance mission capabilities across the defence sector.”
The project is expected to drive innovation in machine learning and predictive maintenance technologies. It will also contribute to workforce development through the creation of jobs, internships and apprenticeships.
