Technology Innovation Institute And Thales Join Forces To Advance Quantum And Autonomous Technologies

The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), part of Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council, has partnered with Thales, a global technology leader. This collaboration aims to speed up the development and application of new technologies in quantum, autonomous systems, and directed energy. The agreement was formalised at the Dubai Airshow and sets a long-term framework for joint research and development.

The partnership emphasises Quantum Sensing by creating highly precise sensing technologies using quantum physics principles. These include gravimetry, magnetometry, and navigation. Additionally, it focuses on developing advanced autonomous systems across various domains such as air, land, sea, and space. Key areas include swarm coordination, adaptive autonomy, AI-driven mission execution, and advanced command and control systems.

Advanced Laser and Power Generation Technologies are also a priority. The collaboration will work on high-energy laser systems, advanced beam control, and compact power sources for future defence applications. This initiative highlights the UAE's dedication to building sovereign R&D capabilities while enhancing its role in global technology collaboration.

Partnering with Thales offers an opportunity to bolster UAE–France cooperation in advanced science and technology. The collaboration underscores TII’s position as a global hub for frontier R&D while demonstrating Thales’ commitment to advancing applied science through partnerships.

Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, stated: "We are on a mission to accelerate R&D in frontier technologies and spark global collaboration by uniting with bold organisations that turn breakthrough ideas into real-world impact. In partnership with Thales, we have brought together two global leaders in applied research, as we are driven by a shared ambition to push the boundaries of science and shape the next wave of technological progress and value creation."

Bridging Scientific Discovery with Societal Progress

The collaboration aims to fast-track the transition from research to deployment while meeting clients’ operational needs. Dr. Chaouki Kasmi, Chief Innovation Officer at TII, remarked: "At TII, we see innovation as a bridge between scientific discovery and societal progress. By joining forces with Thales, we are strengthening that bridge, advancing technologies that not only define new frontiers in quantum, autonomy, and photonics but also deliver solutions that shape a safer, smarter, and more sustainable world."

Abdelhafid Mordi from Thales highlighted the significance of this partnership: "Thales’s partnership with the Technology Innovation Institute builds on shared strengths in quantum, autonomy, and photonics. These are areas critical to the next generation of secure and intelligent systems."

This strategic alliance between TII and Thales is set to drive significant advancements in technology sectors crucial for future developments. By focusing on cutting-edge research areas like quantum sensing and autonomous systems, both entities aim to create impactful solutions that address modern challenges effectively.

With inputs from WAM