QinetiQ to lead maritime defence innovation

QinetiQ has been awarded a contract by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) to conduct maritime research and development for the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), the company announced on 29 January.

Under the Progeny Maritime Research Framework contract, QinetiQ will build and manage a community of innovators who will contribute ideas to maximise the impact of science and technology for UK maritime defence.

According to QinetiQ, the work is open to any academic institution, company or SME whose knowledge, products or services could have application in maritime defence, including organisations that do not work in the defence industry.

Dstl is making up to £25 million available to the community every year over four years to advance maritime science and technology.

QinetiQ, on behalf of Dstl, will manage procurement competition processes and ensure the framework provides value for money for Dstl and its community of suppliers. The oversight will ensure competition is conducted in a fair, open and efficient manner, encouraging collaborative working while protecting ownership of intellectual property.