In collaboration with Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA), the Defence Science Award was launched under the umbrella of the prestigious Tan Kah Kee Young Inventors' Award in July 2001. The aim of the award is to promote greater interest in defence science and technology among Singapore's youth. It also emphasises the importance of harnessing science and technology to enhance the nation's defence and security.

The Defence Science Award is open to persons of any nationality aged 35 years and below who are residing in Singapore. They are looking for originality and relevance to national defence and security in your inventions. All entries and invention prototypes are to be submitted by 31 December for the following year's eligibility.