It was regarded by its official history as 'a jewel in the crown' of both government and industry.
At the split, QinetiQ was formed from the majority (about 3/4 of the staff and most of the facilities) of DERA, with Dstl assuming responsibility for those aspects which were best done in government.
A few examples of the work undertaken by Dstl include nuclear, chemical, and biological research.
QinetiQ has increased its focus on overseas research with a number of US and other foreign acquisitions, whereas Dstl has a major rationalisation programme.
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