Navigating the Waves of Opportunity: Nova Scotia’s thriving maritime naval sector

by Jonathan Coles, Investment Attraction Executive

As I prepare to head to SMM Hamburg this fall, I find myself reflecting on the incredible growth and innovation we’ve seen over the past few years in Nova Scotia's maritime naval sector. To see our traditional maritime industries evolve and lead the charge in innovation demonstrates our strength and commitment to this ever-changing sector.

A legacy of excellence in shipbuilding

Nova Scotia’s maritime roots run deep. For centuries, our shipyards designed vessels that carried seafarers to the furthest reaches of the globe.

Today that legacy continues as our naval sector stands as one of the most advanced and dynamic in the world with a $70-billion dollar contract over 30 years through Irving Shipbuilding to build Canada’s next generation of combat vessels.

Nova Scotia's marine industry is part of a global industry providing acoustic hull design, system electronics, sonar technologies, and computer-aided manufacturing.

Innovation on the horizon

Focusing on sustainability, advanced manufacturing, and cyber-defence, Nova Scotia’s is an industry leader in research and development in naval technology. Institutions like The PIER and COVE are key drivers of this ecosystem, fostering collaboration and attracting organizations like NATO who is launching accelerators in the province.

The PIER is Canada’s first living lab dedicated to transportation, supply chain and logistics industries focused on co-creating, testing and accelerating solutions including sustainable supply chains.

Fuel for thought

International shipping is the backbone of the global economy. Nova Scotia’s infrastructure partners and ports are uniquely positioned to find efficiencies towards decarbonization.

The Port of Halifax is recognized for its applications in AI to monitor cargo handling and transport, operations, and other factors in an accurate and corresponding system. Outcomes build an assessment of CO2e intensity associated with operations showing per container and per metric ton amounts of carbon.

Nova Scotia is known for work in the development of biofuels including launching a Clean Fuels Fund. Organizations like the Verschuren Centre are accelerating the transition to a green and circular economy, matching technology to application and ultimately meeting net zero targets in an efficient manner.

Nova Scotia has substantial potential for hydrogen production. By using excess renewable energy from sources like offshore wind, Nova Scotia can produce green hydrogen. Green hydrogen holds immense promise as a zero-emission fuel, capable of decarbonizing sectors traditionally reliant on fossil fuels. The province has two large commercial-scale green hydrogen projects underway and expects to begin production in 2026.

Broaden your search horizons to Nova Scotia, Canada

Nova Scotia’s maritime naval sector has a global reach. Our ships deploy worldwide, our technologies are used by navies and maritime organizations across the globe, and our expertise is sought by international partners. The work done here in Nova Scotia has a direct impact on global maritime security, trade, and exploration.

Nova Scotia is not just a place to visit — it’s a place to invest, innovate, and make a global impact. Come explore the possibilities that await in our thriving maritime naval sector. The ocean is calling, and Nova Scotia is ready to answer.

Interested in learning more? Connect with me here to book a meeting if you’re attending SMM or to arrange a virtual appointment.