Accelerating breakthrough technologies into new businesses
At BAE Systems, innovation has always been at the heart of what we do. Launchpad builds on this legacy by turning great technologies into new ventures. Launchpad helps create and grow start-ups that develop our advanced technology for use outside of defence. It also accelerates early-stage, potentially transformative defence research, giving it the support needed to make a real-world impact. We’re committed to supporting bold ideas and Launchpad provides the space, guidance and resources to help promising technologies grow into successful, independent businesses.
![BAE Systems Launchpad video [FINAL]](https://cf-images.eu-west-1.prod.boltdns.net/v1/static/3468649950001/b0471d4f-192a-43fa-958f-3df8bec63f9b/4ad0ebe1-2b2f-4cee-8aaf-5942e1b26bc0/1280x720/match/image.jpg "BAE Systems Launchpad video [FINAL]")
Innovation team at BAE Systems
Our commitment to innovation
We’ve created Launchpad to address this opportunity. A bold new programme to transform those ideas into successful, independent ventures that can thrive beyond defence, which complements our existing centres for research and innovation.Julian CracknellChief Technology & Information Officer
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Using our R&D to create standalone ventures that are designed from the outset to grow quickly and meet real commercial demands.
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Form new start-ups that bring frontier technology into defence applications, helping to get advanced capability to the front line faster.
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Accelerate dual-use innovation in areas like AI, autonomy, quantum and advanced materials.
The first company established by the Launchpad programme is Rho-C, which is already making strides in its industry. Rho-C will exploit innovative technology originally developed for use in submarines, which enables the transmission of power and data through solid materials.
Reinventing how power and data move through solid materials
Rho-C is developing technology that can transmit both power and data through solid structures, removing the need to drill holes for cables and wires. This approach is particularly promising for industries such as energy, infrastructure and oil and gas, where minimising structural disruption can improve safety, reduce cost and simplify installation.
News and perspective from our Research and Development teams
Innovation team at BAE Systems