Rahul Goel from NordSpace

Supply Chain

Navigating the complexities of the aerospace supply chain is crucial for NordSpace's success. Rahul Goel emphasizes the importance of a scalable supply chain, noting that aerospace often faces long lead times and specialized components 1. To address these challenges, NordSpace focuses on vertical integration and maintaining a Canadian-first supply chain, which allows for rapid manufacturing and testing 1. This approach not only reduces dependency on international suppliers but also ensures that components are readily available, as Goel explains, "We can drive up there if we need to and get what we need on a dime."

   

Testing Challenges

Testing in aerospace presents unique challenges compared to software development. Rahul Goel contrasts his experience in SaaS, where issues can be quickly fixed, with aerospace, where foundational decisions are critical 2. NordSpace's strategy involves in-house manufacturing to enable rapid iteration and reduce reliance on external suppliers 1. Goel highlights the importance of making sound technological decisions early on, stating, "We rely on the fact that, okay, this is based on sound, scalable physics that has been done in the past."

   

Regulation

The regulatory landscape in Canada poses both challenges and opportunities for aerospace startups like NordSpace. Rahul Goel appreciates the measured oversight from Canadian regulators, drawing inspiration from New Zealand's approach 3. Despite initial concerns, he finds the regulatory environment more supportive than expected, with Transport Canada being particularly cooperative 4. Goel remains cautiously optimistic, noting, "Their hearts are in the right place. They're kind, transparent, hardworking, insincere people."