NR – 05.027 - April 4, 2005 OTTAWA, ON -- Today marks Defence R&D Canada's (DRDC) 5th anniversary as an agency of the Department of National Defence. ¿It seems like just yesterday that DRDC was established,¿ said Dr. John Leggat, CEO DRDC. ¿The creation of DRDC as an agency was based on the more than 50-year tradition of science and technology excellence by our predecessors. We continue to honour their legacy by ensuring that we contribute to the preparedness of our Canadian Forces and the security of all Canadians.¿ In the past five years, DRDC has produced 182 reports of invention as well as negotiated 28 license agreements for the use of DRDC technology. Additionally, DRDC has leveraged approximate value of $170 million in national collaborations with industry, academia and government, and an approximate value of $220 million from international allied collaborations. Over the last year, DRDC licensees have generated more than $1.6 million in royalties. Following the incidents of September 11, 2001, DRDC assumed a national security agenda. DRDC was appointed the lead of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) Research and Technology Initiative (CRTI). This five-year, $170 million initiative was launched in May 2002 as part of the Government of Canada's $7.7 billion investment to improve security and counter terrorism efforts. DRDC is also heavily involved at the international level; more than 30 of its employees have been acknowledged with international awards in the past five years including recognition from the NATO Research and Technology Organization and the Technological Cooperation Program. DRDC's mission is to ensure that the Canadian Forces remain scientifically and operationally relevant. DRDC has six research centres across Canada, an annual budget of $300 million and employs 1500 people. With a broad scientific program, DRDC actively collaborates with industry, international allies, academia, other government departments and the national security community. -30- For more information visit the DRDC web site at www.drdc-rddc.gc.ca or contact: DRDC Public Affairs (613) 992-2033 media@drdc-rddc.gc.ca
