Built for Defence is Newfoundland and Labrador’s initiative to present the province’s capabilities and invite collaboration in support of Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy. Led by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, it highlights the province’s strategic position at the intersection of Arctic, Atlantic, and North American defence domains, and its potential to contribute to national sovereignty and security.

The initiative showcases operational defence infrastructure and expertise, including key military sites, deepwater ice-free ports, Arctic and harsh-environment capabilities, marine and offshore services, and a skilled workforce. It also points to technological innovation, critical mineral potential, diversified energy, and two NATO DIANA test centres supporting defence technology testing and validation. A major industrial project underway is the construction of Eastern Canada’s largest floating dry dock at the Bull Arm Fabrication Facility.

Built for Defence promotes partnerships that connect defence investment with community resilience and regional development. It advocates dual-use infrastructure, such as ports, airfields, communications, energy, and transportation systems, to support military operations while also benefiting northern communities and the wider provincial economy.