Saab extends Aalto University research deal for a decade

Swedish aerospace company Saab and Aalto University have recently announced the extension of their research collaboration for an additional 10 years, taking the partnership all the way to 2036. This long-term commitment signifies a deepening of ties between the two entities and a shared vision for advancing research in crucial areas.

The new agreement comes with a substantial minimum investment of €10 million, earmarked to fuel ongoing research in key areas that are vital to Saab’s business operations. This financial commitment underscores the importance both parties place on pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.

Since the inception of the collaboration in 2017, the focus has been on several critical areas including antenna technology, microelectronics, radar signal processing, artificial intelligence, and hydroacoustic sensing. Notably, the partnership has already yielded significant results, with eight doctoral graduates emerging from the program and three more expected to complete their studies by 2025.

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With the extension of the agreement until 2036, the collaboration is set to enter a new phase of productivity and innovation. The partnership not only includes financial support but also provides key staff to drive the research forward. Many graduates from the program have seamlessly transitioned into roles within Saab’s product development teams in Tampere, where they play integral roles in shaping the future of sensor products.

Commenting on the extended collaboration, Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, emphasized the importance of staying at the forefront of innovation. He highlighted the value of leveraging cutting-edge research to drive continuous improvement and maintain Saab’s position as an industry leader. The collaboration with Aalto University stands as a testament to the power of cooperation between academia, industry, and government in addressing common challenges.

On the academic front, Aalto University President Ilkka Niemelä expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities the collaboration brings for long-term investment in key technological areas. The partnership with Saab enables the university to expand its research activities, delve deeper into emerging technologies, and nurture a new generation of experts who will shape the future of aerospace and related industries.