Aalto University and Saab expand strategic research collaboration

In 2017, Aalto University and Saab launched a substantial ten-year research collaboration to which Saab invested 20 million euros. Since then, 10 doctoral level research projects have been on-going in the areas of antennas, micro-electronics, digital signal processing, artificial intelligence, hydro acoustics and quantum technology. The collaboration is engaging 10 professors and over 20 researchers and PhD students at Aalto.

The research projects have resulted in dozens of scientific publications and several patent applications. The first Doctors of Science (Technology) graduate from the joint doctoral program this year.

Expansion to new areas and post-doctoral research

Saab's additional investment of 3 million euros in research collaboration will increase the company's total investment to 23 million euros in 2017–2026.

The additional investment enables research collaboration to expand into new areas in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, cognitive technologies and machine learning. In addition, the collaboration will extend beyond doctoral research into post-doctoral research.

'During the recent years we have invested a lot in the expansion of our operations in Finland establishing extensive capabilities in research, development and production. We are truly satisfied with the results of our strategic collaboration with Aalto University. The outcome and results support our product development center in Tampere as well as other entities of Saab. With this further investment we are now able to ensure strong research competence in the new areas that are important for our current and future products', says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.

'Saab's significant investment and long-term commitment to collaboration with Aalto University helps our researchers to take their research to international excellence. Thanks to Saab, Aalto researchers have access to the latest industry knowledge and real-life application challenges boosting scientific breakthroughs and innovations', says Ilkka Niemelä, President of Aalto University.

Expanding of the collaboration also strengthens the Finnish – Swedish research collaboration and creates new opportunities for European and global collaboration.