Andy Bell
Chief Science and Technology Officer, Dstl
In an era defined by increasingly rapid technological disruption and sophisticated threats, UK defence’s science capabilities are increasingly crucial to national security.
At the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) – now part of the newly-formed National Armaments Director Group – [WPK1] we support defence and security forces in gaining the operational advantage they need to succeed.
Defence through tech sovereignty
The Strategic Defence Review states we face an unprecedented set of aggressive state actor dangers using enhanced traditional means through to sophisticated cyber-attacks and the weaponisation of emerging technologies. These evolving threats demand dedicated responses. Dstl is the nation’s scientific shield, developing sovereign capabilities that ensure the UK controls its technological destiny in an increasingly contested world.
Our success is built on strategic collaboration. Recently, we orchestrated the UK’s largest AI defence trial, fusing Royal Navy and RAF technologies to identify and counter threats with game-changing speed and precision. This epitomises our role as force multipliers, connecting the brightest minds across government, academia, industry and international partners to deliver breakthrough capabilities where they matter most.
Transformative innovations
Critical to our work are pioneering transformative technologies that provide a decisive advantage. For example, we’re harnessing quantum technologies that maintain uncompromised military communications even when conventional systems are under sustained attack. These innovations don’t just enhance our defensive posture; they catalyse high-skilled job creation and drive economic resilience through the industrial base.
Intellectual firepower delivers
the innovations that protect
our forces and citizens.
Talent powers national security
The cultivation of elite scientific talent remains paramount. Dstl brings together world-class experts from over 30 scientific disciplines in a unique environment where diverse perspectives converge in a multidisciplinary manner to solve our most complex security challenges. This intellectual firepower delivers the innovations that protect our forces and citizens.
Science drives defence readiness
As global instability intensifies and technological advancement accelerates, the boundary between science and operational capability must speed up. To that end, systems integration is at the forefront of our research exploitation, in which we continue to grow skills.
By focusing on sovereign capabilities, collaborative innovation and next-generation talent, Dstl ensures science and technology remain the cornerstone of UK defence – safeguarding our nation against those who threaten our security and way of life.
