The Canadian Space Agency and the Israel Space Agency have joined forces to study two potential space missions, including one to improve maritime safety.

Industry Minister James Moore announced Tuesday that two Canadian companies, MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA) and COM DEV International Ltd., will be conducting concept studies and that each space firm will receive $300,000 for their work.

The goal is to develop advanced applications in satellite communications.

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MDA, in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries, will look into developing a payload that would make next generation satellite communications more flexible.

COM DEV of Kanata, Ont., will evaluate the feasibility of a joint Israel-Canada small satellite system known as ICARUS.

The low-cost system would use a combination of receivers to locate maritime vessels, in order to improve maritime awareness, safety and security.

Canada has a memorandum of understanding with Israel that allows their two space agencies to co-operate on joint projects or research activities.