The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has announced a strategic collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) to significantly advance the UAE’s capabilities in naval maritime technologies. This partnership includes the establishment of a dedicated Naval Technology Innovation Hub to fast-track the development and deployment of next-generation naval systems.
Accelerating Naval Innovation
The newly formed Naval Technology Innovation Hub is designed to serve as a central facility for the research, integration, and testing of cutting-edge naval technologies. The hub will concentrate on critical areas such as autonomy, advanced propulsion, innovative materials, and secure systems. By creating this focused environment, the partnership aims to shorten the timeline for transitioning advanced technological concepts from the research phase to practical, real-world deployment, thereby strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role in the global maritime industry.
A Collaborative Model For R&D
Operating as a jointly managed and co-funded laboratory, the hub will provide real-world testbeds for technology validation. It establishes a shared technology roadmap and a framework for talent and knowledge exchange between TII and ADSB. The facility is structured as an open, collaborative model, inviting leading local and international naval partners to test and validate their solutions in realistic conditions with expert support. This initiative builds on previous successful collaborations, including the development of autonomous unmanned surface vehicles and the 170 M-detector unmanned vessel.
Focus On Next-Generation Technologies
Under the agreement, the two entities will jointly pursue initiatives across a wide spectrum of naval technologies. Key areas of focus include quantum magnetic sensing, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) inspired by quantum principles, underwater robotics, and advanced anti-corrosion coatings. The collaboration will also explore composite armoring, unmanned underwater systems, diver communication and detection solutions, next-generation sonar, and advanced hull treatment techniques, leveraging the combined technical expertise and facilities of both organizations.
About Technology Innovation Institute (TII)
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) is the applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). TII is a pioneering global research and development center that focuses on applied research and new-age technology capabilities. The institute has several dedicated research centers in areas such as quantum, autonomous robotics, cryptography, advanced materials, and secure systems.
About Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB)
Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) specializes in the newbuild, repair, maintenance, refit, and conversion of naval and commercial vessels. The company possesses a state-of-the-art facility in Abu Dhabi and a team of over 1,000 people, positioning itself as a leading shipbuilding and repair facility in the region.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
