Finland's Defence Technology Gets Boost with VTT-Lockheed Martin Collaboration

Finland's Defence Technology Gets Boost with VTT-Lockheed Martin Collaboration
by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Nov 24, 2023

In a significant move for the global defense industry, a research consortium led by Finland's VTT Technical Research Centre and Lockheed Martin has embarked on a novel project to develop state-of-the-art signals intelligence technologies. This initiative, set against the backdrop of modern warfare's intricate requirements, focuses on the development of methods and technologies for radar and communication signal detection and classification, particularly targeting emitters with low probabilities of interception and detection.

On November 21, a framework agreement was signed, marking the start of a long-term cooperation between Lockheed Martin, the Finnish research community, and the Finnish industry. This agreement is a direct offshoot of Finland's procurement of the advanced F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), highlighting the interconnection between global defense contracts and collaborative technological advancement.

The consortium, led by VTT and Lockheed Martin, includes prominent members such as the Finnish defense and technology company Patria, Harp Technologies, and esteemed Finnish academic institutions Aalto University and the University of Tampere. Each member brings unique strengths and perspectives to this collaborative effort, aiming to push the boundaries of current defense technology.

VTT, a state-owned entity with a rich history dating back over 80 years, has been at the forefront of digital technology advancements. It has contributed significantly to satellite signal technology, notably for the European Space Agency (ESA), achieving the pioneering development of 75 GHz signals. This expertise forms a critical foundation for the consortium's objectives.

Sauli Eloranta, Vice President of Safe and Connected Society Research Area at VTT, explains the consortium's goal: "The purpose of the project is to combine the expertise and technological strengths of different parties, creating highly developed solutions and advanced new expertise that can be applied to the needs of the international defence industry, and to the products of next-generation electronic reconnaissance."

The project holds strategic importance for Finland, particularly in bolstering the nation's security of supply concerning technological expertise and talent. It aims to attract new students to the field of digital defense technologies, thereby fostering a pipeline of professionals for both national and international defense industry roles.

Lockheed Martin's engagement in this indirect industrial cooperation initiative extends beyond the immediate project, envisaging long-term partnerships with Finnish companies, universities, and colleges. These relationships are poised to open new opportunities for development and collaboration well into the future.

Eloranta further emphasizes the significance of this cooperation for VTT and Finland: "The cooperation is a significant step for VTT and Finland at large. We are very keen on assessing additional future cooperation opportunities with Lockheed Martin. The technology cooperation offers us an opportunity to continue to develop our strong expertise in defence technologies and to increase cooperation with other defence industry actors."

The project, expected to span three years, is also laying the groundwork for future collaborations. Lockheed Martin and VTT are planning to sign another framework agreement for a second project focused on millimeter-wave passive imaging radiometer development during 2023, with the work expected to commence in 2024.