Space Tech

Space and advanced aerospace activities engage established areas of law, including government procurement, telecommunications regulation, national security, capital markets and cross-border commerce. As commercial participation in the sector expands, organizations require legal advice that reflects both the technical complexities of space systems and the regulatory environments in which they operate.

Aird & Berlis advises companies, investors and public sector participants involved in the development, financing, manufacture and operation of space-related technologies and services. Our work includes mandates arising from satellite communications, launch, aerospace systems, robotics and autonomous technologies, defence and dual-use applications, and emerging orbital services.

Clients include established aerospace companies, growth-stage technology businesses, institutional investors, lenders and government contractors. We also act for organizations entering the sector through acquisition, investment or strategic collaboration. Many mandates involve cross-border structures, regulated markets and long-term commercial programs requiring coordinated advice across multiple practice areas.

The Space Technology Group draws on the firm’s corporate, capital markets, tax, telecommunications, intellectual property, national security and procurement practices. Matters are typically multidisciplinary, reflecting the capital-intensive and highly regulated nature of the industry.

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Areas of Practice

Government Contracts and Regulatory Matters: We advise on participation in government procurement programs, regulatory approvals, licensing regimes, export controls and national security considerations affecting aerospace and space activities.

Commercial Agreements and Procurement: We negotiate technology development agreements, supply and manufacturing arrangements, teaming agreements and other commercial contracts supporting program execution and commercialization.

Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITBs): We advise contractors and program participants on compliance with Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits policy and related offset strategies.

Mergers and Acquisitions: We advise on acquisitions, divestitures, reorganizations and strategic investments involving space and advanced technology businesses.

Telecommunications and Spectrum: We advise on licensing, spectrum allocation, regulatory approvals and commercial arrangements.

Capital Markets: We advise issuers on private financings (venture and institutional financings), public financings, exchange listings and ongoing securities law compliance.

Financing and Investment: We represent issuers, investors and lenders in venture capital, private equity, strategic investment and financing transactions.

Tax Structuring: We advise on domestic and international tax considerations relating to ownership, commercialization and operation of technology assets.

Privacy and Data Governance: We advise on privacy, cybersecurity and data governance matters arising from satellite operations and data-driven technologies.

Intellectual Property: We advise on the registration, protection, licensing and commercialization of proprietary technologies and technical know-how.

Litigation and Dispute Resolution: We represent clients in commercial, regulatory and intellectual property disputes involving aerospace and technology matters.