University Partnerships

what we do

Driving innovation through collaboration

In partnership with leading universities across the United Kingdom, we are harnessing knowledge and cross-discipline thinking to turn research into reality in areas such as AI, quantum mechanics, manufacturing, cyber and aerospace. With new technologies come new industries, which brings social opportunity in jobs, supply chains and skills.

The UK stands proudly as an international powerhouse in science and technology, and together with our academic partners, we’re proud to be key enablers in delivering sovereign capability for defence and beyond.

Problem solvers

When industry and academia combine, national understanding is furthered - driving forward the research and innovation that goes on to form part of the sovereign capabilities we delier through our products.

Together, we ask questions, we identify problems and we find solutions.

How do you make an aircraft understand what information its’ pilot needs and when?

As technology advances, so too does the amount of information presented to the pilot in the cockpit of a combat aircraft. Together with the University of Strathclyde, we are taking measures of stress, brain activity and fatigue, which is then processed by the systems onboard the aircraft, to make sure the pilot is only presented with the most critical information they need to complete the task at hand.

How do you reduce wastage and lead times on aerospace manufacturing methods?

We’re working with Cranfield University to take the latest additive manufacturing processes and apply them in combat aircraft manufacturing. The Wire Arc manufacturing method was applied in the build of a rear frame section for a Typhoon aircraft. The process saves time and money, and results in less waste compared to traditional manufacturing processes.

Can you use AI to generate tactical behaviour for pursuit and evade scenarios?

Working with Cranfield University we’ve developed an artificial intelligence engine for pilots to test their skills in millions of simulated scenarios. Helping them to hone their combat skills, the human pilot is up against the AI engine conducting realistic and complex combat exercises in the simulation that could help reduce pilot overload in a genuine cockpit.

How do you provide accurate navigation without access to satellite systems?

A quantum navigation system could provide unparalled accuracy and resilience compared to satellite navigations systems such as GPS. Together with the University of Birmingham and University of Strathclyde, we’re understanding the science and end applications for quantum in aerospace and defence.

our contribution to the uk

Through the development of these new specialist technologies and capabilities, we strengthen the UK’s industrial base and contribute to the prosperity of the nation, whilst ensuring the UK’s defence industry remains agile and globally competitive.

Learn about our contribution to the UK

Air Sector

Eurofighter in the rain with blue backlight

Eurofighter Typhoon

GCAP

FalconWorks

Careers

Join our team

Whether you’re starting your career or an experienced professional looking for a change, we offer a wealth of opportunities to join our team where you can play your part in protecting those who protect us.