Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) was awarded a launch reservation contract with MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA) to support the largest space program to date in Canada, carrying the three satellites to orbit that will make up the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM) on a Falcon 9 rocket in 2018.

"SpaceX appreciates MDA's confidence in our ability to safely and reliably transport their satellites," said Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX President and COO.

"We hope this agreement is the second of many with MDA."

RCM is a three satellite configuration and will support Canada's need for maritime surveillance, disaster management and ecosystem monitoring.

The mission will build on the successes of RADARSAT-1 and RADARSAT-2.

SpaceX will conduct its first mission for MDA. this year, launching the CASSIOPE satellite on a Falcon 9.