KONGSBERG and partners invest in Canada
KONGSBERG, along with Kongsberg Maritime and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), has announced a major investment aimed at establishing the Marine Innovation Simulation Centre of Excellence (MISE) in British Columbia. This initiative is set to enhance maritime innovation and skill development, and it aligns with key objectives outlined in Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy.
Facilitated through the Industrial Technological Benefits (ITB) policy, this CAD 76.5 million investment will bolster facility infrastructure, enhance applied research capabilities, and promote long-term capability development within Canada.
The upcoming Simulation Center at BCIT will leverage Kongsberg Maritime’s simulation technology, providing a synthetic environment along with development tools and APIs for collaborative applied research among Canadian industry, academia, defense, and public-sector entities. MISE will serve multiple functions, including prototyping, human factor studies, and safety analysis while fostering innovation in maritime safety, autonomy, and low-emission operations.
“KONGSBERG’s investment in the Marine Innovation Simulation Centre of Excellence in British Columbia is a significant advancement for Canada’s maritime sector. It addresses the shortage of certified mariners, drives innovation, and supports small and medium-sized Canadian businesses in developing new products, thus strengthening Canada’s defense industrial base,” said The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.
The partnership aims to establish a long-lasting capability that supports sustainable maritime development. KONGSBERG, with its expertise from Norway, will enhance the technological foundation of this initiative.
“Together with BCIT, we are creating a long-term hub for innovation and research in Canada’s maritime sector that empowers safer operations and accelerates the competence development needed for new concepts,” remarked Are Føllesdal Tjønn, Managing Director of Maritime Simulation at Kongsberg Maritime.
The initiative will also improve access and training capacity by providing cloud-based simulation systems for BCIT, extending learning opportunities outside the campus. This expansion particularly aims to benefit Indigenous communities in gaining maritime education and skill development.
“The Marine Innovation Simulation Centre of Excellence is a testament to effective collaboration and partnership, enabling new educational programs and supporting the commercialization of products,” stated Dr. Jeff Zabudsky, President of BCIT. “This environment combines workforce development, applied research, and industry collaboration.”
Furthermore, Jennifer Figner, Provost and Vice President, Academic at BCIT, acknowledged that MISE will equip learners with vital skills and industry connections required in Canada’s evolving marine sector.
This collaborative effort is anticipated to generate substantial socio-economic benefits through workforce development, enhanced industry-academia partnerships, and the advancement of Canadian small- and medium-sized businesses. It will contribute to regional economic activity, strengthen sovereign industrial capabilities, and facilitate long-term developmental benefits for training and research in Canada.
Note: Kongsberg Gruppen ASA and Kongsberg Maritime AS are now two distinct entities following the demerger of Kongsberg Gruppen.
