Abu dhabi: Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council, has signed a Collaboration Agreement with global technology leader, Thales, to accelerate the development and deployment of new technologies in the areas of quantum, autonomous systems, and directed energy. The agreement, signed at the Dubai Airshow, establishes a long-term framework for joint research and development that drives innovation and real-world applications.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement focuses on Quantum Sensing by developing ultra-precise sensing technologies, such as gravimetry, magnetometry, and navigation, using quantum physics principles. It also includes Advanced Autonomous Systems, which involve developing cross-domain robotics and autonomous mobility in air, land, sea, and space, with a focus on swarm coordination, adaptive autonomy, AI-driven mission execution, and advanced Command and Control Systems.
The collaboration further aims to advance Laser and Power Generation Technologies through high-energy laser systems, advanced beam control, and compact, scalable power sources for future power beaming and defense applications. This partnership exemplifies the UAE's commitment to building sovereign research and development capabilities, supporting the country's role as a catalyst for global technology collaboration.
Working with Thales, a Paris-headquartered multinational organization, presents an opportunity to strengthen UAE-France cooperation in advanced science and technology. The collaboration underscores TII's role as a global hub for frontier research and development and Thales' commitment to advancing applied science through partnership.
Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, stated that the mission is to accelerate research and development in frontier technologies and spark global collaboration by uniting with organizations that turn breakthrough ideas into real-world impact. The partnership with Thales brings together two global leaders in applied research, driven by a shared ambition to push the boundaries of science and shape the next wave of technological progress and value creation.
The focus of the collaboration is to accelerate the transition from research to deployment, serving clients' operational needs. Dr. Chaouki Kasmi, Chief Innovation Officer at TII, emphasized that innovation serves as a bridge between scientific discovery and societal progress. By joining forces with Thales, they aim to advance technologies that define new frontiers in quantum, autonomy, and photonics, delivering solutions for a safer, smarter, and more sustainable world.
Abdelhafid Mordi, Vice President of Thales in the UAE and Iraq, and CEO of Thales Emarat Technologies, highlighted that the partnership builds on shared strengths in quantum, autonomy, and photonics, which are critical to the next generation of secure and intelligent systems.