MDA Space is transitioning from a supplier to an operator by building its own direct-to-device (D2D) satellite constellation. The company filed with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to launch a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) network named SpaceRAN. This 170-satellite project positions MDA Space to compete directly with its existing customers, including Telesat.
The project will deploy in two distinct phases. MDA Space targets 2029 for the first phase to provide full coverage over Canada and partial global service. This initial deployment will consist of 96 satellites. A second phase will expand the constellation to 170 satellites for full worldwide connectivity.
MDA Space also announced an expanded product roadmap on September 1, 2026. The company will supply its software-defined satellite architecture to other commercial D2D operators. Initial deliveries of these platforms to external customers are scheduled to begin in 2027.