NyRAD

By: Stewart Crisford, Analyst Intern, NyRad

August 25, 2026

Four months ago, I joined NyRad as a university student with no defence background. I expected a steep learning curve, but I did not expect the industry to challenge so many of my assumptions.

Here are the three things that surprised me most:

1. The scale of Canada’s defence industry

Before this summer, I had no idea how large or interconnected the industry was. It extends far beyond major equipment manufacturers and includes thousands of Canadian businesses, research institutions and specialized technologies.

Canada’s defence industry is not a narrow sector reserved for a handful of large primes. It is an ecosystem with room for specialized companies, researchers, innovators and suppliers across the country. For companies trying to enter or grow in this market, understanding that ecosystem is essential.

2. The importance of causality in ITB packages

I was especially surprised by how meticulously causality is treated in Industrial and Technological Benefits packages. Economic activity cannot simply happen alongside a procurement. Companies must demonstrate that an investment, partnership or business activity resulted from an ITB commitment. Every connection needs to be documented and supported. It seems near impossible to do within the realities of most businesses.

3. The complexity of Canada’s offset system

Canada’s system is far more involved than I expected, I was struck by how easily organizations from outside Canada can underestimate this complexity. Experience in another offset market does not necessarily translate directly to Canada.

For companies used to other offset systems, Canada can look familiar on the surface while operating very differently in practice. The rules, evidence expectations and strategic priorities require a Canada-specific approach.

My summer at NyRad showed me that defence procurement is about much more than purchasing equipment. It is also about economic development, industrial strategy and the capabilities Canada chooses to build for the future. The biggest lesson for me is that these details matter because they shape who participates in the market, how companies compete and what long-term value defence spending creates for Canada.

I still have plenty to learn, but I am leaving with a completely different understanding of the industry than when I arrived.