The new investment will make use of QinetiQ’s world-class R&D facilities developed in 2012 under a Dstl funding. To make the research financially viable, Dstl allows QinetiQ to spin out its non-classified intellectual property into commercial and overseas markets. During such a case, QinetiQ advised the French Government on whether a wind turbines project would interfere with weather radar.

QinetiQ’s Director of Research Services, Dr David Moore, said on the occasion of the agreement: “The facilities and research funded under this contract place the UK at the cutting-edge of advanced materials technology. The investment not only maintains a crucial battlefield advantage, but opens up a commercial supply chain that supports UK jobs, businesses and academia. The result is a hotbed of innovation, adding value for the UK Government with no additional burden on the taxpayer.”

While John Pearson, Dstl’s Programma Manager, said: “As technology advances at an unprecedented rate and becomes more accessible to hostile states and groups, it is vital that the UK stays one step ahead. Our investment will preserve a unique capability of critical national importance, enabling the British Armed Forces to maintain their battle-winning edge.”