Feb. 12, 2026 — North Vancouver, B.C. — Seaspan Shipyards (Seaspan) has awarded a contract to Confined Space Robotics (CSR) to develop and integrate semiautonomous robotic systems to enhance shipbuilding processes for blast and paint operations.
Blast and paint operations are integral to Seaspan’s ship and submarine businesses. Used in both new shipbuilding and in complex submarine, ship repair and overhaul projects, this project has a goal to make the blast and paint operations more efficient, safer and higher quality across the breadth of our business.
Under this contract, CSR leverages Canadian expertise and components to develop several products for use on collaborative robot systems, equipping them with specialized tools such as needle scalers, laser ablation systems, grinders, grit-blasters, and spray-coating tools. These systems will be mounted on mobility platforms for manual manoeuvring and will include custom-developed software to control path planning and user operations.
Using robotic systems reduces workplace injury as they are designed to handle highly repetitive tasks in difficult and hazardous environments. This reduces worker exposure to toxic fumes and particles during removal and application of surface coatings, reduces long-term worker injury and strain, and improves the overall work environment.
The robotic systems also contribute to improved quality and consistency in the manufacturing process, while decreasing the environmental impact of the shipbuilding operations. This will be achieved through the development of intelligent path planning systems that optimize material usage and reduce environmental footprint, contributing to Seaspan’s overall environmental goals and sustainable shipbuilding practices.
This $1.5 million investment with CSR is part of Seaspan’s Value Proposition commitment under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
QUOTES
“Expanding the domestic use of cutting-edge Canadian technology is central to our government’s new industrial policy. This partnership between Seaspan Shipyards and Alberta’s Confined Space Robotics shows how Canadian industry continues to push the boundaries of advanced manufacturing. This investment strengthens our domestic supply chain, accelerates the adoption of pioneering industrial technologies, and positions Canadian companies to compete and lead in a rapidly evolving global market.”
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
“This is exactly what the National Shipbuilding Strategy is delivering: Canadian innovation, good jobs, and safer workplaces. By backing robotics developed in Alberta and putting them to work in B.C. shipyards, we’re strengthening Canada’s industrial capacity, protecting workers, and building ships more efficiently and sustainably here at home. That’s how public investment delivers real results for Canadians.”
- The Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant
“The National Shipbuilding Strategy is about more than building ships; it is about building a sustainable, high-functioning shipbuilding ecosystem which contributes to Canada’s economy. Seaspan is excited to be announcing this new partnership with Confined Space Robotics which will grow our shipbuilding supply chain in Alberta while further strengthening two of Seaspan’s key workplace initiatives, sustainability and employee health and safety.”
- Dave Hargreaves, Senior Vice President – Strategy, Business Development and Communications, Seaspan Shipyards
“We are incredibly excited to partner with Seaspan to redefine what is possible in shipbuilding through world-leading robotic technology. This collaboration allows us to integrate our specialized robotic systems into the shipbuilding process, directly improving personal safety and reducing operational risk. By automating highly repetitive and dangerous tasks, we enable skilled teams to focus on higher-value activities while fostering a shared culture of care and incident prevention. We are proud to see our home-grown innovation setting a new global standard for the maritime sector.”
- Ahmed Kawar, Director of Engineering and Projects, Confined Space Robotics
QUICK FACTS
- Seaspan has, so far, delivered four vessels under the NSS, with three others currently under construction. In total, Seaspan will design, build, and deliver up 23 ships for the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard.
- Through the NSS, Seaspan has invested more than $35 million to support education, learning, research and skills development in the marine industry, with a special focus on reducing barriers for underrepresented groups, bringing a broad range of new talent into the industry and the trades, including more women and Indigenous people, and creating opportunities for youth through internships and apprenticeships.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Twitter: @Seaspan
LinkedIn: Seaspan ULC
Instagram: @SeaspanULC
Facebook: Seaspan
ABOUT SEASPAN
Seaspan is a leader in Canada’s ship design, engineering, building and ship repair industry. With modern facilities and a dedicated workforce of about 5,000 in North Vancouver and Victoria, the company is a trusted and strategic partner on a range of complex projects for both government and the private sector.
ABOUT CONFINED SPACE ROBOTICS
Confined Space Robotics Inc. is a leader in the design, development, and integration of cutting-edge robotic systems for industrial applications. Headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, CSR specializes in providing advanced automation solutions for industries that operate in challenging environments, with a focus on improving safety, efficiency, environmental stewardship, and productivity.
MEDIA CONTACT
[email protected]