The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Denel have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration across research, technology development, innovation, knowledge sharing and technology commercialisation. The partnership encompasses a wide range of areas, including space technology, advanced manufacturing, engineering services, sensors, maritime and missile technologies, cybersecurity, aeronautics, command, control, and situational awareness platforms, and joint technology commercialisation. The signing ceremony was held on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the CSIR, attended by the chief executives of both organisations.
The CSIR’s collaboration with Denel forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen South Africa’s innovation landscape through strategic partnerships. The Council helps local industry improve its competitiveness by providing access to specialised facilities and skills through the Industry Innovation Partnership Fund, supported by the Department of Science and Technology. Participants have access to large-scale prototyping and pre-commercial manufacturing infrastructure, equipment, expertise, and business and technical networks.
Both entities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and ensuring compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2026/01/28/csir-and-denel-partner-to-advance-south-africas-aerospace-and-military-technologies/