Why it matters
DEFSEC West is the only dedicated defence, security, and aerospace trade show in Western Canada, filling a long-recognised gap for SMEs and primes seeking Canadian content supply chain partners in the region. The Government of Canada participates with a whole-of-government procurement presence, making it a direct access point for companies navigating Canadian defence contracting. With two-thirds of 2027 space already sold off the back of a strong inaugural edition, it is rapidly becoming a must-attend event for any company targeting the Canadian defence market.
About
DEFSEC West is a defence, security, and aerospace trade show and B2B networking event held annually in Calgary, Alberta, expanding the established DEFSEC brand from Halifax to Western Canada. The event brings together prime contractors, SMEs, government facilitators, Indigenous Nations representatives, and international participants to facilitate supply chain connections and procurement discussions. It features an exhibition hall, a structured B2B meetings programme, a presentations pavilion, and an Academic Day of Connection. The DEFSEC brand is licensed from the Nova Scotia International Air Show Association and produced by Ingram Ridge Consulting.
Market intel
Moderate pricinghigh confidence
The inaugural 2026 edition drew over 1,700 delegates and 130+ exhibitors from across Canada and internationally, including participants from as far as Japan, generating an estimated CAD $3 million economic impact for Calgary. The 2027 edition is expanding the Calian Exhibition Hall by 50% to over 180 booth spaces and doubling B2B meeting capacity, with two-thirds of space already booked before the 2026 show floor closed. Key exhibitors confirmed for return include Calian, Des Nedhe Group Defence, and Prairies Defence Hub, alongside a Government of Canada whole-of-government procurement presence.
Notable exhibitorsCalianDes Nedhe Group DefencePrairies Defence HubQinetiQ (QTSC)Bombardier DefensePAL AerospaceGEAL3Harris
AI-researched Tue, 25 August 2026. Estimates from public sources. Verify with the organizer.
Topics
ProcurementAirISR & SensorsAutonomy & RoboticsC2 / Battle Management
Who it's for
PrimesSMEsStartupsInstitutions