How Geomatics, AI and Sensing, and Naval Defence are advancing the ocean tech industry in Nova Scotia, Canada

By: Jonathan Coles

Located on the East Coast of Canada, Nova Scotia is home to one of the world’s most advanced ocean technology industries. Recently chosen as a NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) test centre, Nova Scotia is in the words of the DIANA organization, “one of the very best venues for innovators to develop and evaluate their concepts and technologies.”

Among the many fields within our provincial ocean tech landscape, three stand out as key drivers of growth and expertise: Geomatics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sensing, and Naval Defence. While these areas continue to enhance our understanding of the oceans, they are also bolstering global security, sustainability, and economic development.

1. Geomatics: Mapping the Ocean for Innovation

Geomatics involves the gathering, processing, and interpretation of geographic information about the Earth, and in Nova Scotia, this extends deep into ocean environments. The ability to accurately map and model underwater terrains, ecosystems, and structures is critical for sectors ranging from marine biology to green energy exploration.

Nova Scotia’s geomatics expertise benefits from collaborations between research institutions, government, and private companies. The Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE) and Dalhousie University are two major players driving research in this field. Using satellite data, sonar, and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), companies in Nova Scotia provide insights into everything from ocean currents and seabed composition to the monitoring of coastal erosion. These technologies are fundamental to offshore resource management, aquaculture, and the development of marine renewable energy projects.

Integrating geomatics with AI and sensing technologies has allowed our ocean tech sector to push the boundaries of autonomous systems. This is vital for addressing climate change and ensuring that ocean activities, including shipping and fisheries, are sustainable for future generations.

2. AI and Sensing: Harnessing Data for Ocean Insight

The application of AI and sensing technologies is revolutionizing how we interact with and understand the ocean. In Nova Scotia, these innovations are used to collect and analyze massive amounts of data in real-time, offering unprecedented insights into marine environments.

One area of expertise is the development of advanced underwater sensors and AI-driven systems that can monitor ocean conditions, track marine life, and even detect environmental changes before they become critical. These tools are indispensable for oceanographic research and industries such as fishing, where accurate, real-time data on fish populations and habitats can lead to more sustainable practices.

Leading the industry in this area is DeepSense, an organization enabling ocean tech companies to connect with data. Ocean scientists can leverage AI and Machine Learning to develop commercially useful predictive models and analytical prototypes.

3. Naval Defence: Strengthening Maritime Security

A province with a deep-rooted naval history, Nova Scotia continues to play a crucial role in naval defence technology. Our capital, Halifax, is home to Canada’s Atlantic Naval Fleet and a centre for naval operations, making it a natural hub for innovations in maritime security and defence technologies.

Nova Scotia’s naval defence industry is integrated with global efforts to secure and monitor international waters. Companies and institutions in the province develop cutting-edge technologies in underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and shipbuilding.

Irving Shipbuilding leads efforts in the construction of advanced naval vessels for the Royal Canadian Navy through Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. Recently announcing an expansion of their facilities, they are building ships equipped with the latest in naval technology, designed to perform in a variety of challenging environments while ensuring the safety and security of international waters.

Beyond shipbuilding, Nova Scotia’s expertise in naval defence extends to cyber security, autonomous maritime systems, and sensor networks that detect underwater threats. The partnership between military contractors, tech innovators, and academic institutions ensures Nova Scotia remains at the forefront of naval defence technology, contributing not only to national security but also to global maritime stability.

What’s Next?

Nova Scotia’s ocean tech industry is a global leader, with a wealth of expertise in geomatics, AI and sensing technologies, and naval defence. These are just a few of the areas of innovation that are driving sustainable practices, advancing marine research, and strengthening maritime security.

The province offers a collaborative ecosystem where cutting-edge research meets practical application, making Nova Scotia an ideal destination for those looking to be part of the next wave of ocean technology advancement.

If your business is looking for a new location, consider expanding your search to Nova Scotia, Canada. Not only is there strength within our ecosystem, but we have the talent, strategic location and incentives to help grow your business.

Get in touch today and learn how we can help you choose and grow your business in Nova Scotia, Canada.