Lockheed Martin Canada is developing the platform with the RCAF and Canadian AI company Contextere. The investment contributes to Lockheed Martin’s economic impact commitments under the CC-130J In-Service Support program.
iMAPLE stands for Intelligent Maintenance, Asset, Personnel and Learning Environment. It draws on Contextere’s work turning institutional knowledge into practical guidance for people maintaining and operating complex equipment.
“Lockheed Martin’s investment in iMAPLE reflects a shared belief that the future of sustainment depends on connecting people, knowledge, and technology,” said Gabriel Batstone, Contextere’s chief executive officer and co-founder. “Together, we are building on Canadian intellectual property that supports our armed forces, strengthens our industrial base, creates opportunities for skilled trades, and showcases how Canadian AI can deliver value on the global stage.”
Beyond the funding, Lockheed Martin will advise on the design, testing and optimization of AI components throughout the project. It will also provide validated machine-learning methodologies, quality reviews and knowledge transfer.
“Today’s announcement demonstrates meaningful results for Canadians through Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy. This partnership invests in a Canadian-developed artificial intelligence solution that supports the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CC-130J Hercules fleet,” said Stephen Fuhr, Canada’s secretary of state for defense procurement.
The partners see potential for broader applications and exports alongside the work supporting the Hercules fleet. Lockheed Martin said the project aligns with Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy and national AI strategy, AI for All.
“This collaboration with the Royal Canadian Air Force and Contextere offers something truly special,” said Kristen Leroux, Lockheed Martin’s vice president and regional executive for Canada and Latin America. “We’re proud to be a part of the development of iMAPLE and to work alongside Contextere in support of our air force and the CC-130J fleet, demonstrating how Canadian innovation can build a sovereign defence and dual-use ecosystem right here at home.”
Lockheed Martin said Canada’s purchase and associated support of 17 CC-130J Super Hercules aircraft have delivered more than C$4.7 billion in economic benefits under the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy. The company also reported contributing C$3.6 billion to Canadian gross domestic product over the past five years and supporting an average of 4,561 jobs annually.
