Why dual use?

The relationship between the civil and defence worlds is intensifying and the dividing lines between them are becoming increasingly blurred. It is clear that research and essential technologies, such as those relating to big data, synthetic biology, and 3D printing, will become an important source of innovation for both defence and civil industries.

There is a great potential of dual use research and development (R&D), that encourages a strong involvement of defence‑related small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in future funding programmes.

What are the benefits of dual use?

National and regional authorities can support companies and research institutions to develop generic technologies that can have both civil and military applications (generating innovation, and seeking new research and business opportunities).

By reducing segmentation between civil and defence applications, both industry and public authorities can contribute to innovation, drive down the costs of new defence programmes and maximise economic spillovers.

Agenda of the workshop

13.30 Registration and coffee

14.00 Welcome and introduction by Brittany Office: Frederic Suche, Brittany Office

14.20 Dual use – opportunities for regions: Paul Anciaux, DG Growth

14.50 European Defence Agency’s agenda on EU funding for dual-use: Pierre Di Toro EDA

15.10 Case study – PACA Region: Ziga Valic, EU Affairs Advisor Pole Optitec, PACA

15.30 Discussion

16.00 End

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