Saab Australia and Adelaide University have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) as the next step in their ongoing relationship to support sovereign defence capability.
The new partnership agreement between Saab and the University will focus on future capabilities including distributed command and control, autonomous systems and hypersonics.
As a whole-of-university strategic partnership, activities will facilitate regular knowledge-sharing in key areas of interest, conduct applied research aligned with strategic and technological priorities, leverage R&D networks to expand research impact and access innovations, support student engagement through internships, work-integrated learning, and industry events and develop professional development programs to upskill the existing workforce.
Through the partnership, Saab and Adelaide University will utilise the Sovereign Combat Systems Collaboration Centre at Mawson Lakes which was established in partnership with the Australian Government to develop and integrate sovereign capabilities at speed.
The two foundation universities, the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide have had an ongoing relationship with Saab with activities across workforce, curriculum and research.
Saab is an industry partner in the Defence Trailblazer program and has supported PhD projects and contributed to tender responses and applications for government grants.
As an industry sponsor of professional development opportunities for young women undertaking STEM degrees, Saab has also been involved in workforce development.
The SPA outlines the intention to collaborate strategically and serves as an ‘umbrella’ agreement that provides the framework for the engagement and collaboration. This approach will foster a mutually beneficial partnership that maximises impact, drives innovation, and creates long-term value for both the University and Saab.
Quotes regarding the Strategic Partnership Agreement:
Professor Jessica Gallagher, Deputy Vice Chancellor, International and External Engagement, Adelaide University
“Adelaide University is pleased to be signing the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) with leading defence and security company Saab.
“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.
“Saab and Adelaide University share a mutual interest in driving technological advancements, supporting workforce development, and contributing to the defence and civilian sectors.”
Andy Keough CSC, Managing Director, Saab
“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.
“Saab is looking forward to strengthening our collaboration with Adelaide University to continue innovative capability development and build the highly skilled workforce the defence industry will need over the coming decades.
The SPA was signed by Professor Gallagher and Mr Keough at a ceremony on North Terrace campus.