Message from the Assistant Deputy Minister

I am very proud to present the second annual report for the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) Program. Our approach to accessing innovation has taken us to new heights and places, and we are eager to share the stories from our journey.

Progress in organizations can be gradual. Sometimes organizations make a quantum leap in progress, and it can seem like it came out of the blue. In reality, a slow and steady buildup of hard work, calculated pivots and strategic relationships has been the foundation for IDEaS success this past year.

In its second year of operation, we have supported innovative research that includes taking inspiration from octopuses to create artificially intelligent camouflage, as well as the development of cutting-edge cyber attribution that is already in the hands of our troops for testing. As you can see, the IDEaS approach wastes no effort from the innovator community to ensure that DND/CAF defence capabilities will remain on the leading edge.

I would like to acknowledge all those who have contributed to the IDEaS continuum for their efforts in continuing to move the innovation agenda forward. I look forward to seeing what comes next.

Isabelle Desmartis
Assistant Deputy Minister
Defence Research and Development Canada