Navigating Global Waters – Built in B.C., Trusted by Navies Worldwide

Key Points: 

What does it take for a British Columbia–based company to become a global leader in ocean technology? OSI Maritime Systems’ expansion from a local innovator to an international defence provider shows how the province supports homegrown companies as they scale and compete worldwide:

• Advancing global naval operations through the development of trusted navigation and tactical systems used by NATO and allied surface and submarine fleets
• Building from strong local foundations by leveraging British Columbia’s ocean‑technology ecosystem to design, certify and deliver interoperable defence solutions
• Scaling export‑driven growth with support from partners such as Trade and Invest BC, enabling global market access while maintaining core research, intellectual property and skilled jobs in B.C.

British Columbia (B.C.) is recognized as a global leader in ocean technology, with strengths spanning undersea digital observatories, deep water submersibles and remotely operated vehicles. The province is also home to the world’s largest hybrid and fully electric tugboat fleet, reflecting its continued commitment to sustainable marine innovation. Ongoing shipyard expansions and strategic investments are accelerating the commercialization of both proven and emerging technologies, reinforcing B.C.’s leadership across ocean science, defence and security, marine transportation, shipbuilding and repair, and environmental monitoring.

As Canada’s Pacific gateway, British Columbia’s maritime roots run deep. Generations of shipbuilding, refits, maintenance and supply chain expertise have shaped a globally competitive industrial base. Today, this foundation supports the nation’s largest blue economy and a highly skilled workforce. Within this ecosystem, B.C. companies are advancing the next generation of ocean technology. OSI Maritime Systems stands out as a leading example, delivering operationally critical solutions that reflect the province’s commitment to innovation and global impact.

Building a Global Naval Technology Leader

OSI Maritime Systems is a global provider of integrated navigation and tactical solutions for naval and maritime security operations. Founded in Burnaby, B.C., the company has grown into a world-class defence technology firm, employing hundreds of skilled professionals and delivering advanced systems to NATO and allied navies worldwide.

Established in 1979, OSI began with a small team focused on modernizing maritime navigation. Its early breakthrough was the development of one of the first electronic charting systems designed specifically for maritime operations. From the outset, the company’s approach centered on transforming complex sensor data into clear, intuitive and actionable insights that support confident decision making at sea. This enduring focus on precision, reliability and operational trust continues to define OSI’s work today.

Advancing Integrated Navigation Systems

OSI’s flagship product, the Electronic Chart Precise Integrated Navigation System (ECPINS), has become a cornerstone of modern naval navigation. As a military-grade Warship Electronic Chart Display and Information System (WECDIS), ECPINS is the only WECDIS that is third-party type approved against NATO Standardization Agreement (NATO STANAG 4564) requirements and is widely trusted for its accuracy, safety and reliability.

What began as advanced navigation software has evolved into a fully integrated solution supporting both surface vessels and submarines. Its widespread adoption has positioned OSI as a global benchmark in naval navigation, while strengthening its role within Canada’s defence industrial base.

Building on this foundation, OSI continues to expand its capabilities through advanced technologies. In early 2026, the company introduced Collision Avoidance Decision Aid (CADA), an AI-enabled tool designed to enhance situational awareness and support decision making in complex maritime environments. By analyzing large volumes of real-time data, CADA delivers clear, actionable insights that help reduce operator workload while reinforcing human oversight and control.

Supporting Naval Operations Worldwide

OSI Maritime Systems plays a critical role in the global maritime defence sector, providing integrated navigation and tactical systems for some of the world’s most advanced naval fleets. Its solutions are deployed across both surface combatants and submarines, supporting NATO and allied operations worldwide.

With a strong emphasis on interoperability and standards compliance, OSI enables navies to operate safely, decisively and effectively in increasingly complex environments. Its ECPINS platform is widely regarded as a leading WECDIS solution across NATO Europe, with system deployment on more than 800 vessels, 18 classes of submarines, and fleetwide on 10 navies. The company is also recognized for its leadership in subsurface navigation, strengthening its position across the full spectrum of naval operations.

Scaling from British Columbia to Global Markets

OSI Maritime Systems has successfully expanded from a B.C.-based company into a globally competitive enterprise. The majority of its revenue is generated through exports, delivering Canadian-developed technology to international defence markets while maintaining its headquarters and core research and development activities in B.C.

This export-driven model supports high-value job creation, innovation and long-term economic growth within the province, while highlighting B.C.’s role as a launchpad for globally competitive technology companies.

Enabling Growth Through Strategic Partnerships

OSI works closely with Trade and Invest BC to support its regional and international business development efforts. Through this collaboration, the company benefits from market intelligence, global connections, and targeted support in both emerging and established markets.

Trade and Invest BC plays an important role in helping companies like OSI expand their global footprint by facilitating introductions, supporting trade initiatives and strengthening international visibility. More broadly, the team connects businesses to talent, investment and commercial opportunities across the province, supporting both economic growth and export success.

Shaping the Future of Maritime Technology

British Columbia continues to lead in ocean technology innovation, supported by a strong industrial base and sustained investment in marine infrastructure and research. Within this environment, companies like OSI Maritime Systems are transforming advanced engineering into trusted, mission critical operational solutions for navies around the world.

Looking ahead, OSI is well positioned for continued global growth, with expanding opportunities across maritime security and coast guard operations. Backed by decades of expertise and strong international partnerships, the company is helping define the future of integrated navigation and tactical systems.

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