Single National Defence R&D Centre to Drive Innovation

COLOMBO (News 1st); President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed officials to establish a single national research and development centre by integrating all research and development units currently operated separately by the Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force.

The President made these observations while participating in a pre-Budget 2027 discussion related to the Ministry of Defence at the Presidential Secretariat.

During the meeting, President Dissanayake emphasized that the objectives of the defence sector could be achieved more efficiently and effectively through a unified national institution that brings together the research and development capabilities of all three armed forces.

Extensive discussions were also held on the need for the defence sector to rapidly adopt modern technologies and advanced technological equipment in order to strengthen national security and address emerging global challenges.

The meeting further focused on enhancing the professional skills of defence personnel by increasing opportunities for overseas training, enabling members of the armed forces to gain new knowledge and expertise in evolving fields.

Attention was also directed towards the operations of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Hospital and plans to commence operations at Neville Fernando Hospital. Discussions included the allocation of necessary funds for these initiatives and future development plans.

In addition, officials reviewed a programme aimed at encouraging the labour contribution of defence personnel engaged in the construction sector.