Roundtable on Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy

canada's Defence Industrial strategy

what it actually means for your business

The federal government just released its Defence Industrial Strategy. The analysis has begun. The cheerleading has begun faster. This 45-minute roundtable cuts through both—focusing on practical engagement pathways, realistic timelines, and which adjacent industries have a real shot at the new capital and contracts on the table.

Why Attend!

The engagement window is now, not later. DND, ISED, and PSPC are actively in listening mode. How you approach that window – and whether you approach it at all – shapes your positioning for the next procurement cycle.
There’s a gap between what DIS promises and what it can deliver. We’ll name the structural and political constraints that most coverage is glossing over.
If you supply aerospace, maritime, robotics, or advanced manufacturing—this concerns you. The strategy creates industrial pull in sectors that don’t traditionally think of themselves as defence suppliers.
European and foreign firms exploring Canada will get a direct read on entry points. Where procurement relationships are actually built, and which partnership structures align with DIS priorities.

Meet our Panel

Dr. Roy Rempel worked the advisor responsible for defence policy in the office of the Prime Minister from 2010 to 2015. In addition, he has worked in government in various capacities, including in the Minister's office at Public Safety, at Treasury Board and at the Department of International Trade. He is the author of three books related to Canadian foreign and defence policy and has taught international relations including at Memorial University and Carleton University. He has received his PhD from Queens University.

Roy Rempel, PhDManaging Principal

Anton Sestritsyn is a Principal at VOSAVIS, based in Ottawa. He brings senior experience in federal politics, public affairs, and international diplomacy, advising leaders from Parliament Hill to the United Nations. He has expertise in IT, Health, Housing, Manufacturing and Defence. Anton has held executive roles in both public and private sectors and is fluent in multiple languages.

Anton SestritsynPrincipal at VOSAVIS

Ven is a Partner and Data Analytics leader in KPMG’s Risk Services practice with over 22 years of experience in data strategy, governance, advanced analytics, and process automation across multiple industries. In recent years, Ven has spearheaded KPMG Canada’s work in Trusted Data & AI, data and AI strategy development, and regulatory data pipelines within the Public Sector—particularly in Defence. He is a member of KPMG Canada’s AI Governance Committee and a core member of the Defence Industry team.

Ven AdamovPartner, KPMG

Erin brings more than 20 years of experience shaping narratives across broadcast, digital, and organizational strategy. From her early days in Canadian journalism to founding Story Studio Network, she’s built a career at the intersection of clarity, creativity, and responsibility. Erin will help our teams craft stories that feel human, grounded, and resonant, while also leading important conversations about how AI is reshaping communications.

Erin TraffordPrincipal at VOSAVIS and Round Table Moderator

Details

Date: April 2, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM Eastern

Duration: 45 minutes

Format: Virtual roundtable

Cost: Free

What you receive: Briefing note PDF (sent ahead of the session)

This is for:

– Defence and defence-adjacent company leaders who want to understand practical DIS engagement, not just the headlines

– Foreign firms and investors assessing Canada’s defence industrial landscape and partnership opportunities

Register

Spots are limited. Enter your details below and we’ll send your briefing note PDF ahead of the session.

FAQ

I’m already well-briefed on DIS. Why attend? Because everyone’s briefed on the document. This session is about the engagement mechanics – how companies are actually positioning right now, what the procurement timelines look like in practice, and where adjacent industries have realistic entry points.

We’re not a defence company. Is this relevant? Possibly, yes. DIS creates pull across advanced manufacturing, maritime, aerospace, robotics, and dual-use technology. If your supply chain, capabilities, or capital needs overlap with any of that, the session is worth 45 minutes of your time to find out.

Is this a sales pitch? No. Vosavis is hosting this to build relationships with people working in the space. The panelists are here to have a substantive conversation. If you find it useful and want to talk further, that door is open—but nothing in the session is structured to push you there.

Will there be a recording? Yes, we will send the recording to those who register and request the recording. All registrants will also receive a briefing note on the contents of the DIS in advance, so that our time together is spent focusing on the bigger questions, perspectives and opportunities. Register to stay in the loop.

How do I submit questions? You’ll have the opportunity to submit questions in the chat live during the session. We’ll do our best to get to the most substantive ones in the time we have.