About Dstl - The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory

Dstl, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory is a trading fund  agency and the centre of scientific excellence for the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD).  It provides impartial scientific and technological advice to the UK Armed Forces and British Government.

Dstl delivers to the MOD world-class independent scientific advice, defence research, specialist technical services and the ability to track global technological developments. Dstl delivers these services using its 3,500 plus workforce which includes some of the nation’s most talented and creative scientists. Dstl has core expertise and capabilities across a multitude of disciplines which are strengthened by trusted partnerships with academia and industry.

Dstl was formed on 2 July 2001 from the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) and continues to generate considerable intellectual property in specialist areas such as biotechnology, healthcare, material science and telecommunications amongst others. In line with the government policy of realising the economic benefits of public sector research, Dstl created Ploughshare Innovations as a vehicle through which publicly available technological achievements are available for civilian exploitation. Historically, defence research has produced many advances including supersonic air travel, liquid crystal displays and infrared detectors.

With more than 30 patent applications arising from leading edge research programmes every year, Dstl is providing practical breakthroughs that are helping to save lives. The existing portfolio of some 150 patents has led to commercial licences and partnerships with industry in diverse sectors. Hence Dstl is actively pursuing the Government policy, via Ploughshare Innovations, of releasing the economic potential of public sector research establishments (PSREs) through the transfer of good ideas, research results and skills to business and ultimately the UK taxpayer.

For further details about Dstl, please visit their web site at www.dstl.gov.uk.