Government of Canada invests in new defence research facility in Valcartier
News release
November 26, 2020 – Ottawa – National Defence/Canadian Armed Forces
The Government of Canada is investing in defence infrastructure to provide our scientists with the modern, functional, and green facilities they need to continue cutting-edge defence research well into the future.
Today, the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, President of the Treasury Board, highlighted the beginning of construction of a new research facility to modernize the Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) Centre in Valcartier, Que. The $144-million construction contract was awarded to EBC Inc., of Québec City and is expected to create over 750 jobs and economic benefits for the region.
Work under this construction contract is phase one of a three-phase, $272-million project to upgrade the DRDC Valcartier Research Centre. Phase one includes construction of a 31,000-m2 research complex, which will feature approximately 80 new multi-disciplinary laboratories, as well as office and storage spaces. Once completed, this new research facility will consolidate nearly 500 defence scientists from different locations on-site into one centrally-located building with modern, collaborative research spaces.
Upgrading these research facilities will enable DRDC personnel to continue innovating in the fast-paced research and development environment they operate in. Their research spans information systems, tactical surveillance and reconnaissance, weapons systems and vehicle and personnel protection systems, and more, all aimed at meeting the future science and technology needs of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Quotes
“This major investment in scientific and military research is excellent news for the economy of our region. In 2020, we know that we must rely on knowledge to ensure our future prosperity and this project fits perfectly into this logic. Our government is proud to support our armed forces while contributing to the development of the regional economy and the creation of high-quality and well-paying jobs.”
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, President of the Treasury Board
“Forward-thinking infrastructure is key to supporting the unique needs of DND’s science and technology community. Our personnel require access to modern and functional workspaces equipped with the latest innovations to help them develop solutions to meet the CAF’s science and technology challenges. These new facilities will keep the Defence Team on the leading edge of defence research and development into the future.”
The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence
Quick facts
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The Department of National Defence’s science and technology organization, DRDC, provides the defence community, CAF, other government departments, as well as the public safety and security communities, with the knowledge and technology advantage needed to defend and protect Canada’s interests at home and abroad.
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The Valcartier Research Centre is the largest of seven DRDC centres across Canada.
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Phase one construction began in October 2020 and is expected to finish in 2024.
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The new research facility will be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver standards, and will use approximately 38% less energy than a similar sized building. By modernizing and greening our defence infrastructure, we are supporting the needs of a modern military, while reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and saving on energy costs.
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Phase two of this project, which includes construction of a garage and the renovation of several existing buildings, is estimated to begin in fall 2024. Phase three, which includes demolition of 45 additional buildings, is targeted to start in 2027.
Associated links
Contacts
Floriane Bonneville
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-3100
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-904-3333
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
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