Saab partnership: Building expertise that lasts

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Saab–Aalto partnership, and a newly signed agreement will extend the collaboration through 2036. Across these two agreement periods, Saab’s total investment in the partnership will exceed €30 million. This reflects a long-term commitment from a company that carefully selects its strategic university partners.

The value of long-term commitment

The collaboration is built on a shared understanding: meaningful innovation takes time. ‘At Saab, we aim for a deep understanding of the key technologies that matter to us. Rapid renewal is essential, but true innovation is built on strong expertise, and that expertise cannot be rushed,’ says Petteri Alinikula, CTO and Head of Research at Saab Finland.

‘Saab is known for its investments in research and development, and for Aalto, the partnership provides an opportunity to contribute to the development of world-class technologies. Our researchers also benefit from access to the company’s extensive international networks,’ says Professor Jussi Ryynänen, dean of the Aalto University School of Electrical Engineering.

Research topics include quantum technology, antennas, radars and satellites, acoustics, sensors, and machine learning. The collaboration has produced new technologies for industrial applications, dozens of joint scientific publications, and multiple patents. Graduates of the programme have also gone on to successful careers at Saab in research and leadership positions.

Doctoral-level research collaboration

Doctoral education lies at the heart of the partnership. An industrial partner brings unique technological and business challenges to the university, while students gain direct exposure to real-world industry needs.

At any given time, the Saab–Aalto partnership includes six to eight doctoral research projects involving around 30 professors, researchers and students. The company and the university also organise an annual joint research day.

Most doctoral candidates are employed by Saab and typically spend one day per week on company projects. Around 80 per cent of their working time is devoted to research at Aalto University. This model successfully combines academic excellence with business relevance, and it enables new expertise to be applied directly in industry.

80 years in Finland

• Saab has operated in Finland since 1946. 
• Part of a Swedish global technology company. 
• Focuses on solutions for defence, security, and the protection of society. 
• In Finland, particular emphasis is placed on research, systems development, and collaboration with universities and industry. 
• Employs 290 people in Finland across four locations.

This article has been published in the Aalto University Magazine issue 38, September 2026.