Imec and Belgium’s Ministry of Defense have announced a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of sensors, AI and secure connectivity for defense and security applications. The collaboration will connect the research center’s expertise in nanoelectronics and chip and system architectures with military requirements and operational experience. The partners aim to turn research into usable technology faster while retaining strategic knowledge in Belgium and Europe.
The partnership falls under Odin, Belgium’s existing organization for defense innovation and industry, which seeks to translate innovation into deployable military capabilities. It’s also intended to create opportunities for local companies, including startups and small and medium-sized enterprises, to develop and commercialize technology.
The partners will support talent development and expertise through doctoral projects and advanced research programs. Imec will also act as a technology expert in national and international defense and security forums, building on its recently strengthened aerospace and security activities. The announcement doesn’t specify a budget, concrete development projects or delivery timelines.
