"S&T is essential for ensuring the defence of Canada, and represents a critical element of national security. The Department of National Defence (DND), the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and their safety and security partners depend on S&T to deliver on their respective mandates and adapt to ever-changing demands. S&T's importance is particularly true today, given the transformed technological and geostrategic landscape, and the complex challenges facing Canada's defence and security community. In an era of continuing global instability, resource constraints and the diffusion of advanced technologies, S&T and the broader innovation system are indispensable capabilities that support operational excellence and effective, evidence-based decision-making. It is this context which both shapes and defines Canada's new Defence and Security S&T Strategy"--