To strengthen their collaboration – which is aimed at advancing research, technology development, innovation, knowledge sharing and technology commercialisation –  national research organisation the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and aerospace company Denel entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

The signing ceremony, held last month at the CSIR, was attended by both CSIR CEO Dr Thulani Dlamini and Denel CEO Tsepo Monaheng.

Reflecting the shared vision of both organisations, the MoU marks a significant milestone in their shared commitment to advancing South Africa’s aerospace and military technologies.

Moreover, the partnership reinforces the CSIR’s mandate to improve industry competitiveness and “support a capable State through science, technology and innovation”.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation across a range of research, development and innovation areas.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dlamini highlighted the scope of the collaboration, which spans areas such as advanced manufacturing, engineering services, sensors, human capital development, maritime, missile technologies, cybersecurity, aeronautics, command, control and situational awareness platforms, space technology and joint technology commercialisation.

“The partnership represents a significant step forward in building a future-ready, innovation-led economy. By combining the CSIR’s research capabilities with Denel’s expertise, we aim to co-create solutions that not only respond to present challenges but also shape the aerospace and defence technologies of tomorrow,” Dlamini stated.

He noted that, by signing the MoU, the entities establish a formal foundation for joint initiatives that will enhance national competitiveness, attract investment, support the development and commercialisation of locally developed technologies and promote skills development.

Additionally, Monaheng expressed that Denel was excited about this shared vision, allowing both organisations to successfully provide solutions to armed forces, the South African National Defence Force and the broader security cluster to support national security.

He noted that, for Denel, the collaboration would always be about the company looking to support and advance South Africa’s aerospace and defence industries.

“This is where we align with the CSIR, whose mission is to strengthen South Africa’s key sectors and help build a capable State. We are proud to collaborate and look forward to many fruitful opportunities that will contribute to national development,” Monaheng stated.

During the ceremony, both entities reaffirmed their commitment to the protection of proprietary rights, while ensuring compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.