Naval Group, Inria, and Simula Research Laboratory have signed a collaborative agreement aimed at fostering advanced research and innovation (R&I) within digital and maritime defence technologies.
The signing, hosted by Innovation Norway at the Norwegian Club of Paris, enhances Franco-Norwegian research in defence technology.
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As per the agreement terms, a systematic approach has been outlined for pinpointing shared research interests, assessing prospective initiatives, and discussing additional collaborative opportunities.
This partnership is set to explore fields such as communication systems and digital transformation, which are essential for contemporary naval operations, said Naval Group.
This pact supports Naval Group’s wider strategy to strengthen ties with reliable research institutions, aiming to address the evolving technological requirements of the Royal Norwegian Navy and its allied counterparts.
Inria is France’s National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology. It is focused on advancing digital innovation while contributing to the country’s defence and security objectives.
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By GlobalDataSimula is a digital research centre owned by the Norwegian government. It aims to tackle societal and industrial challenges.
Naval Group artificial intelligence director Sébastien Rousset said: “This agreement reflects a shared commitment to excel in digital innovation and national security. Inria and Simula bring unique strengths in scientific research, and we are proud to work with them on solutions that benefit not only Naval Group but also our partners in Norway and Europe.”
Furthermore, the agreement will reinforce Naval Group’s role as a provider to the Royal Norwegian Navy and a defence collaborator within Norway.
Norway’s long-term defence strategy for 2025–2036, known as the Norwegian Defence Pledge, places emphasis on strengthening maritime capabilities.
Part of this plan is the acquisition of at least five new frigates equipped for anti-submarine warfare, along with a minimum of five new submarines.
In line with this strategic vision, Naval Group recently signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Akkodis in Norway, a digital engineering company operating through its local subsidiaries, Akkodis Edge Norway and Akkodis Norway R&D Services.
The LoI outlines prospective areas for collaboration within the scope of the FDI frigate programme.
Announcing the LoI, Naval Group said: “As part of Norway’s long-term defence plan to introduce five new frigates starting in 2029, Naval Group is committed to continuing its integration of Norwegian industry into its global supply chain, extending beyond the maintenance of the FDI frigates.”
The LoI came close on the heels of Naval Group’s agreement with Norwegian company Kongsberg to bolster naval capabilities and their market positions.
