Whitby defence manufacturing opportunities will be examined after council backed an interim staff report on attracting businesses in the national security supply chain.
The review will identify businesses that could reasonably locate on Whitby employment lands.
Review covers manufacturing and technology
Potential sectors include armoured vehicles, military components, precision machining, robotics, aerospace, electronics, drones, artificial intelligence and logistics.
Councillor Niki Lundquist supported the report but said residents should be consulted because pursuing defence contracts is not a neutral policy choice. Mayor Elizabeth Roy noted that Whitby businesses already hold defence contracts. Council approved the direction unanimously.
Oshawa has promoted its Integrated National Defence Innovation Corridor, while Ontario Tech has received federal support for defence technology research and testing.
No specific company, site or incentive package was approved.
