# Reaction Dynamics Targets 2031 Launch for New Medium-Lift Rocket The Quebec-based firm plans massive scaling to challenge global launch capacity constraints. - **Source:** [BetaKit](https://betakit.com) - **Published:** 2026-10-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/4d5ae67f-bee2-4271-a7be-b970937f80a9 ## Ambitious Expansion Strategy Revealed Reaction Dynamics announced plans at the SpaceBound Conference to develop the Borealis medium-lift rocket by 2031. This vehicle aims to haul six-tonne payloads to low Earth orbit, significantly expanding upon the capabilities of their smaller Aurora rocket. The company intends to leverage this technology to serve growing demand from international and domestic satellite customers. ## Capitalizing on Global Launch Shortages SpaceX’s dominance has led to capacity constraints, with launch slots becoming unavailable past 2028. This market gap provides a strategic opening for Canadian firms like Reaction Dynamics. The company has already secured 10 agreements and letters of intent from prospective clients across Canada, the United States, and Europe to ensure future launch demand. ## Phased Development and Funding Roadmap The company plans to raise approximately $350 million CAD over two funding rounds. A Series B round targets up to $100 million for the 2028 Aurora launch, followed by a Series C round of up to $250 million for Borealis. This capital supports the transition from light-lift to medium-lift orbital delivery systems. ## Scaling Workforce and Infrastructure To support these technical goals, the firm plans to grow its team from 68 to 350 employees within five years. Simultaneously, they aim to expand their manufacturing and testing footprint from 60,000 to 375,000 square feet. While currently based in Quebec, the company is evaluating additional land options in Ontario and Nova Scotia. ## Leveraging Federal Sovereign Capabilities Reaction Dynamics aligns with Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy, which prioritizes sovereign space launch capabilities. The company recently received an $8.3 million grant from the Department of National Defence’s IDEaS program. This funding supports the development of launch infrastructure, reinforcing the government's commitment to establishing domestic space access through partnerships with private industry. ## Operational Foundation via Aurora The Aurora rocket serves as a critical stepping stone for the company’s long-term roadmap. By targeting an orbital launch from Canadian soil by 2028, the team will gain essential flight experience. This practical knowledge of manufacturing, integration, and spaceport operations is vital for building the credibility required to successfully execute the larger Borealis project. ## Strategic Spaceport Partnerships The company has invested in Maritime Launch Services, which operates a spaceport near Canso, Nova Scotia. This site is designated for the initial Aurora orbital launch. By securing this location, Reaction Dynamics establishes a physical base for its operations, ensuring they have the necessary infrastructure to meet their ambitious 2028 and 2031 deployment timelines. ## Long-term Industry Impact Reaction Dynamics represents a significant shift in Canada’s aerospace sector, moving toward independent orbital access. By combining private investment with government support, the company aims to provide dedicated launch capacity for allied nations. Their success depends on scaling both human capital and technical expertise to compete effectively in the global commercial space market. ## Sources covering this story - https://betakit.com/reaction-dynamics-plans-rapid-expansion-to-launch-new-medium-lift-rocket-by-2031/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._