One example is the new Drone Innovation Hub to advance research, development, and the commercialisation of drone technologies for Canada\u2019s defence, security, and dual\u2011use sectors. The hub also creates new testing opportunities for businesses \u2013 from simulations to live flight trials \u2013 in collaboration with the Department of National Defence (DND) and Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC).<\/p>\n
The NRC has also acquired a Canadian-built Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft, which will serve as a dedicated airborne defence research platform. This adaptable aircraft, with state-of-the-art technologies, will enable Canadian businesses to develop, test, and evaluate new defence solutions securely and efficiently. By doing so, Canada reduces its dependency on foreign platforms, accelerates commercialisation, and increases Canadian global competitiveness.<\/p>\n
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The NRC developed first-person video quadcopter component test platform developed with advanced manufacturing techniques. \/\/ Le CNRC a mis au point une plateforme d\u2019essai de composants de quadricopt\u00e8re vid\u00e9o \u00e0 la premi\u00e8re personne, d\u00e9velopp\u00e9e \u00e0 l\u2019aide de techniques de fabrication avanc\u00e9es.<\/p>\n
At the same time, the NRC is strengthening Canada\u2019s industrial base through the Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) initiative, delivered by the NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). This initiative provides funding and advisory services to SMEs developing defence and dual-use technologies, helping Canadian innovators turn ideas into deployable solutions that fuel both economic growth and national security.<\/p>\n
The NRC is also reinforcing Canada\u2019s leadership in emerging fields such as quantum technology and biotechnology. Investments in quantum sensing, quantum internetworking and quantum-safe communications are laying the groundwork for future defence and security systems. Through the Biomedical Countermeasures Initiative, NRC researchers are strengthening Canada\u2019s readiness to respond to biological threats and pandemics that could affect national health security.<\/p>\n
Research and collaboration to secure Canada\u2019s future<\/p>\n
Through its Challenge programs and collaborations with the DND, the NRC has delivered more than\u202f975 joint projects since\u202f2021, advancing technologies in aerospace, sensors, marine systems, and biosecurity. This enduring partnership \u2013 the NRC\u2019s largest \u2013 demonstrates how government research collaboration can drive innovation into operational advantage for the Canadian Armed Forces.<\/p>\n
The NRC\u2019s work under the\u202fDIS reflects a whole of government approach aligning long-term research investments with Canada\u2019s defence priorities. Through research, collaboration, and innovation, the NRC is helping Canada to remain a technological leader, protect its sovereignty, meet future challenges, and build lasting economic strength.<\/p>\n
In an era defined by rapid disruption and global uncertainty, investments in research and innovation are not optional \u2013 they are essential. By aligning science, industry and national priorities, the NRC is helping Canada secure its future: stronger, safer, and more resilient.<\/p>\n