In a significant step for naval defense research, Naval Group and LASIGE, a research unit from the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Lisbon, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement, signed aboard the FDI frigate in Lisbon on November 6, 2025, establishes a formal framework for collaborative Research and Development (R&D).
This strategic partnership aims to leverage the complementary expertise of both organizations to drive innovation in the maritime and defense sectors. The collaboration will focus on key areas of mutual interest related to the digital transformation of naval systems. Specific fields of study include intelligent systems, computer vision, simulation frameworks, smart energy systems, human-machine interfaces, drone-related digital systems, and cybersecurity for naval systems and sensors.
For Naval Group, this agreement is part of a broader strategy to foster joint innovation with Portugal’s academic community, supporting the development of future naval capabilities. Guillaume Weisrock, Naval Group’s SVP for Sales and Business Development, highlighted LASIGE’s expertise and its close connection with the Portuguese Navy as a natural fit for this endeavor.
Professor Alysson Bessani, director of LASIGE, emphasized the importance of collaboration with industry leaders for research with high scientific and societal impact. He views Naval Group as a strategic partner for R&D projects in defense technologies, which are critical for Europe’s security and technological sovereignty.
The MoU is strategically positioned within Naval Group’s ambition to contribute to the Portuguese Defense Technological and Industrial Base (DTIB), should the Portuguese Navy select the FDI frigate for its fleet renewal. The company has a established track record of collaboration with Portuguese industry, having worked with 16 companies on 15 European projects since 2019. A recent Industry Day hosted with AED Cluster Portugal further engaged over 45 companies and academic institutes, highlighting opportunities in the FDI frigate supply chain, advanced engineering, and naval digitalization. This new partnership with LASIGE underscores a committed and deepening engagement in Portugal.
