Industry committee  First of all, I would like to say that in the past couple of weeks I've had the great opportunity to visit these strong assets. Categorically, intellectual property rests in the people; it doesn't rest in facilities. Success in growth, and with technology breakthroughs and innovation and productivity—all ending up in RADARSAT-2, -3, -4, or RapidEye—comes from people.

Industry committee  I think we've provided information back to Investment Canada on our intentions. I would say they're very powerful. Why? Because of the indication of what I just stated. These are very significant and very innovative, agile sets of work groups, led by very strong leadership. We have a lot to learn as we work together.

Industry committee  I believe that the influence ATK Space has right now—and I will put this on the record so that it is known—is that 50% of our current space activities is commercial work in space, not the inverse. Some people may think that ATK Space has an inverted relationship here, but I will give you the data: we are 50% commercial, 17% defence, 17% civil, and 13% in intel.

Industry committee  I think the intent of this kind of capability addresses multiple industries. It's going to address a commercial industry, it's going to address a civil space industry, and also defence. So there are certain aspects of the capability that will be used for special purposes. There were earlier discussions today.

Industry committee  First of all, what I was addressing was the control of the assets, which is the human capital and the business-making decisions that already exist up in Canada. Again, I will go back to the earlier statements that we have no intentions—none whatsoever—to change the leadership, the decision-making power, around these key assets that are currently held here in Canada, managed in Canada, and operated in Canada.

Industry committee  First and foremost, I think it is our obligation to continue to support the situations that may arise out of natural disasters. I know of no other great opportunity than to support a nation when it is in distress and to use these resources appropriately to solve those problems.

Industry committee  I would first say that the situation is different, rightfully so. But again, we will continue to operate this company with the leadership that's here in Canada. Our obligation to our customers.... And these are commercial contracts. We will abide by the regulations and the law that's set before us.

Industry committee  Currently our intention is that it will be a wholly owned Canadian entity, and we will abide by the contracts and the legal regulations that currently exist.

Industry committee  Mr. Chairman and members of the committee, good afternoon. On behalf of the 17,000 employees of Alliant Techsystems, it's my extreme pleasure to testify before the committee regarding the pending acquisition by ATK of the information systems and geospatial services business, MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates.