The federal government says certain defence contracts will be subject to a mandatory cybersecurity certification process starting in 2024.

Defence Minister Anita Anand says contractors are often targets of malicious cyberattacks that threaten unclassified information and put supply chains at risk.

Anand was speaking at the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries annual trade show, which is known as CANSEC, in Ottawa this morning.

She says Russia’s use of disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks during the war in Ukraine have highlighted the need for better protections.

The government says it will design the program with the United States so that certified contractors will be recognized in both countries.

Anand also announced funding for an Indigenous reconciliation program in her department that will support consultation on infrastructure projects and research.