L3Harris and ESL Labs: A Strategic Investment in Canada’s Defence Future

In today’s complex global security environment, innovation in defence systems isn’t optional, it’s essential. Rigorous testing and validation under real-world conditions ensure systems perform reliably when it matters most. That’s why L3Harris’ Maritime International business in Montreal has made a 5.24 million Canadian dollar investment in ESL Labs, a Halifax-based small- to medium-sized enterprise, marking a pivotal advancement for Canada’s defence industrial base and technological future.

Funded through the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy’s Investment Framework, the partnership equips ESL Labs to expand its already specialized testing capabilities. As one of only two facilities in Canada with a medium weight shock machine, ESL Labs has now added salt corrosion chambers and base motion simulators. The new equipment enables the company to better replicate harsh marine environments, which is critical for testing naval and maritime systems.

However, this investment is more than an equipment upgrade. It’s a strategic alignment of technical capability, regional development and national interest.

A Partnership Rooted in Capability and Vision

ESL Labs’ expertise complements the capabilities of L3Harris’ Montreal facility, which focuses on maritime systems, simulation control and integrated platform management. Together, the companies strengthen Canada’s ecosystem for delivering high-performance solutions to domestic and international partners.

“This investment reflects our commitment to fostering innovation and supporting small- and medium-sized Canadian businesses,” said Stephen Isaacs, General Manager, Maritime International, L3Harris. “By enhancing ESL Labs’ capacity, we’re not just enabling technical growth, we’re supporting economic development in Nova Scotia and across Canada.”

“Enhancing specialized, mission-critical testing capabilities within Canada – particularly for the harsh military environments – not only accelerates innovation but also increases the global competitiveness of Canada’s defence industrial base,” said Jeff Gibson, CEO of ESL Labs.   “Both L3Harris and ESL Labs have demonstrated forward-thinking investment in Canada’s future technology requirements and national security.”

A Critical Asset for National Defence

Unlike generic test labs, ESL Labs occupies a niche that is critical to Canadian defence priorities. Its location in Nova Scotia positions it to serve national security programs and key industry players like Irving Shipbuilding Inc. It also meets requirements that are often the most challenging in defence procurement: Canadian Content Value, security of supply and jurisdictional certification. ESL Labs is a national strategic asset and a key partner to L3Harris.

Reducing Risk, Accelerating Innovation

The benefits of this partnership extend far beyond lab walls. Faster testing, reduced risk and lower costs strengthen L3Harris’ competitiveness in global markets, especially in contracts where local capabilities are a decisive factor.

The investment also supports the ITB Policy’s broader goals: driving innovation, supporting small- and medium-sized businesses and creating sustainable economic impact.

A Model for Future Collaboration

As Canada modernizes its military and reinforces its supply chains, this partnership offers a blueprint for how large defence firms can collaborate with local innovators to build sovereign capabilities at home.

This investment isn’t just about funding equipment, it’s about building capacity, fostering trust and ensuring Canada is prepared to meet future challenges with homegrown expertise.

In an era where defence readiness and economic resilience go hand in hand, the partnership between L3Harris and ESL Labs demonstrates what’s possible when strategy, technology and national interest align.