Canada x Farnborough, with another twist in fighter procurement
GCAP meet Canadian SMEs: the stage is set at Farnborough 2026
Canadian SMEs: the stage is set at Farnborough 2026, with a side of a new twist in Canada’s fighter procurement: Global Combat Air Program
From 20 - 24 July, the Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) hosts 1,500+ exhibitors from 60+ countries and attract over 100,000 visitors. This year’s event comes at a critical moment. The UK defence sector has faced rotating defence ministers, a PM resignation, and calls for higher defence spending. (External Link)
A world-class aerospace event with a growing defence focus, the FIA is a prime platform for Canadian companies to showcase capabilities, secure investment, and forge lasting cross-border partnerships in the UK.
--Canada’s Delegation--
ISED, DND, the Trade Commissioner Service, and the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada are delivering a coordinated Canadian presence at FIA 2026. This includes the Canada Pavilion Lounge, Canada Chalet, exhibition areas, meeting rooms, and speaker series events.
Canada is showing up: 500+ Canadian participants from over 150 organizations.
--Defence SME Zone: 2026 Addition--
FIA also puts SMEs front and center in defence. This year’s show debuts the Defence SME Zone to highlight high-potential firms in defence & security tech.
The zone lets SMEs with turnover under £10M ($18.6M CAD) engage directly with primes, media delegates, governments, and investors.
More SME support at these shows is always welcome - flagged in this year’s CANSEC.
--British-Italian-Japanese Global Combat Air Program--
Canada is expected to officially join the British-Italian-Japanese Global Combat Air Program as an observer.
The move that marks a strategic effort to bolster European defence ties while Ottawa assesses its long-term fighter jet alternatives.
The well-timed announcement offers good news momentum heading into Farnborough.
However, it is the latest in a period of extended confusion in Canada’s fighter procurement saga.
--The Takeaway--
Farnborough covers the full spectrum of aerospace and defence. 2026 is set to spotlight global security, advanced tech and AI, resilient supply chains, sustainability, finance, and the next-gen workforce.
For SMEs, it’s a rare chance to see the entire value chain in one place and keep the ball rolling after Canada’s success at Eurosatory (Did you miss out? Check out what else is on the horizon).
Firms should focus on linking with primes, procurement bodies, and vital industry connections to anchor their agenda and maximize their time on the show floor.
Europe’s aerospace sector needs Canadian suppliers. FIA is one of the best opportunities to meet the moment.
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