Centre for Defence Research and Development: Steering Committee Meeting 2025

2025-04-10

The Centre for Defence Research and Development (CDRD) convened its 2025 Steering Committee meeting on April 10th at the boardroom, CDRD headquarters. The Steering committee was chaired by the Additional Secretary (Technical Services) Eng. Ms. W.R.N.R. Premachandra. Director-General Commodore Janaka Gunaseela welcomed the distinguished committee members and highlighted the importance of bringing together some of the finest minds from academic institutions and defence establishments for a common purpose, to drive innovations, foster collaboration, and strengthen Sri Lanka's technological capabilities ranging from Geographic Information Systems, Satellite and surveillances, AI and robotics, advanced materials, cyber security and beyond.

In his address, he elaborated that partnership between academia and the defence sector has always been a cornerstone of breakthrough innovation. He noted that collective expertise spanning from fundamental science, applied research and strategic defence applications do create a very powerful synergy. Further he elaborated together that the committee can address emerging technological challenges, anticipate future threats and build resilient systems that serve the needs of our armed forces and nation.

The steering committee agenda was both ambitious and exciting, which included the CDRD achievements, ongoing projects, and new research proposals, along with the pathways to accelerate technology transfer and development. Director-General Commodore Janaka Gunaseela led the proceedings along with the distinguished committee members including Major General Sajith Liyanage - Chief Signal Officer from Sri Lanka Army, Captain (G) Hemantha Ranasingha - Director Naval Policy and Plan from Sri Lanka Navy, Group Captain M.C.M. Fernando from Sri Lanka Air Force, Prof. R.P. De Silva, Senior Professor of Agricultural Engineering from the University of Peradeniya, Prof. Chathura De Silva, Professor at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering of University of Moratuwa, Prof. C.A.N. Fernando - Senior Professor in Nano Science and Technology from Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Prof. Thushara Weerawardane - Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Dr. Pradeep Kalansooriya, Dean of the Faculty of Computing from General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University. This esteemed composition of academic and military expertise together with Wing Heads of the CDRD, evaluated research proposals presented by researchers from the armed forces and other establishments. Director General mentioned that with the committee's guidance, oversight, and strategic vision, that the CDRD ensures the research projects remain aligned with national priorities and operational needs. He further acknowledged the invaluable contributions made by the researchers and industry/university partners, highlighting their commitment to advancing knowledge, naturing young talent and pushing the boundaries of science to its limits.