Cooperation with Scientific Research

To further the scientific priorities of the DGA, the MRIS has the following goals:

  Strengthen basic research partnerships and cooperative efforts with the concerned institutions and operators at the regional, national, and European levels.
  Contribute to the creation and employment of networks of specialized watchdogs for scientific developments and applications.
  Mobilise the scientific skills of educational institutions and organisations under DGA authority, for the benefit of defence priorities.
  Evaluate and enhance the value of scientific research and innovation activities that receive the support of the DGA.
  Strengthen and implement financial support.

Training through Research

By providing support for doctorate theses, post-doctorate training, and research training abroad, the defence department works to train engineers and researchers in areas of defence interest, so that they can then use their skills in public and private industries and laboratories. Each year, 125 theses are financed (350 currently), along with approximately twenty training programs abroad for young professors and researchers that are recognized in their field. Other specialised activities (Doctoral candidate days, Doctoriales®, Entreprenarials, awards) are also part of these measures

More pratical information on the official DGA research website (only available in French)

Support of exploratory research and innovative projects

A responsive procedure, the REI: Exploratory Research and Innovation.

The REI procedure is open to spontaneous candidatures for projects proposed by public research laboratories from the academic world and innovative small and mid-sized companies. It has the following goals:

  Encourage the exploration of new research areas and maintain efforts in technological innovation in areas of defence interest.
  Explore scientific and technical problem areas to encourage the development of skills and to identify areas where technological skills are lacking.
  Contribute to the acquisition of DGA technological capacities.

The procedure can provide a maximum of 300,000 € of support, with contract lead times of less than six months.

More information on Exploratory research and Innovation