About the Science & Technology Organization
The NATO Science and Technology Organization (STO) delivers innovation, advice and scientific solutions to meet the Alliance’s ever-changing needs. As the world’s largest and most vibrant science and technology collaboration on security and defence, the STO brings together leading scientists and experts from NATO and Partner nations. Through the collaborative work of expert Panels, groups and the in-house executive body, Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE), the STO research network works to address essential challenges at the intersection of new technologies and security concerns.
A Little History
Global technological leadership has been the foundation upon which NATO's ability to deter and defend against potential threats ultimately rests. Throughout its 70-year history, the Science and Technology Organization has undergone a number of changes as it adapted to meet the evolving needs of NATO in an increasingly technological world. The strength to refine and employ new technologies has for decades provided NATO Nations with a multitude of cutting-edge capabilities to ensure military advantage, provide security and prosperity to our societies, and protect the sovereignty of our democracies. Since it was established, NATO has relied on the strength of its Member Nations to work towards common goals. The STO enables the Alliance to empower its technological edge through technology, information sharing, and scientific collaboration.
The past 70 years are characterized by the rapid evolution of technology and constant innovation across the globe. Our Organization was founded on the principle of scientific collaboration and innovation in order to deter future aggression. Ensuring we have the technological edge over our adversaries is a necessary step in saving the lives of those in our militaries.
While the types of threats faced by NATO have changed since our Organization began in 1952, the collaborative model that was established at the very start has become even more necessary today. Uniting scientists and engineers through common interests and the desire to safeguard the freedoms of the entire Alliance has been the cornerstone of the operations and activities at the STO.
The short video below documents this rich history from the very beginning. It included valuable contributions from some of the key Scientists who helped shape the organization into what it is today.