Saab Australia and Adelaide University have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) to strengthen their collaboration and support Australia’s sovereign defence capability.

The agreement builds on their long-standing relationship and focuses on future technologies such as distributed command and control, autonomous systems and hypersonics.

The partnership will support joint research on key priorities, encourage regular knowledge-sharing and help grow the workforce through internships, work placements, industry events and training programs. It will also tap into research networks to speed up innovation and increase impact.

Adelaide University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, International and External Engagement, Professor Jessica Gallagher, highlights the SPA as a unified approach for long-term success.

“This SPA signifies a unified approach that enables the University to develop a comprehensive forward plan with Saab, integrating priorities in teaching and learning, research and innovation, and community outreach and engagement and positioning the partnership for long-term success,” said Professor Gallagher.

“Saab and Adelaide University share a mutual interest in driving technological advancements, supporting workforce development, and contributing to the defence and civilian sectors.”

The SPA sets out how the two organisations will work together to drive innovation and create long-term value. Through the partnership, Saab and Adelaide University will use the Sovereign Combat Systems Collaboration Centre at Mawson Lakes to develop and integrate sovereign capabilities at speed.

Saab Managing Director Andy Keough CSC emphasises the partnership’s role in future capability and workforce development.

“This partnership will enable Saab and Adelaide University to drive future capability development aligned with Australia’s strategic defence priorities and create employment opportunities for South Australians,” said Mr Keough.

The partnership builds on existing collaboration with the two foundation universities, the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, that have each worked with Saab for many years on workforce development, curriculum design and research. Saab is also a partner in the Defence Trailblazer program.

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Photo caption: The agreement was formalised by Professor Gallagher and Mr Keough at a ceremony held at Adelaide University’s North Terrace campus.