Deakin University and Hanwha Defense Australia (HDA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to drive collaboration between Deakin and Hanwha in modelling and simulation, machine learning applications and human performance.
The MoU was signed on 6 May at the Waurn Ponds Campus – home to Deakin's Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (IISRI) – by Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin and Hanwha Defense Australia Director of Strategy and Business Development Tim Pickford.
Professor Martin said the two organisations’ mutual interests included a range of emerging technologies and advanced manufacturing and a focus on growing the local economy through education and employment opportunities.
“Deakin is a local university with global impact. Hanwha is a global leader in the defence industry. Together we share a strong commitment to Victoria and its regions,” Professor Martin said. “This MoU reflects a partnership approach to creating opportunities in advanced intelligent technologies and will enable us to explore better the application of AI in technology design, modelling and simulation, and control of future platforms.
“And over time, it will provide immersive, authentic work experiences for our students. The opportunity to learn with such an organisation during a period of rapid change will benefit our students and form an invaluable part of their education.”
Richard Cho, HDA's Managing Director, said his company was delighted to enter into the MoU with Deakin University.
“This partnership will lead to the local development of advanced technology, the development of high-value local employment and, ultimately, the development of high-tech exports,” Cho said. “I look forward to seeing the outcomes of our work together.”
Deakin's Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research Professor Julie Owens said: “Hanwha is one of the world’s elite corporations in the development of new systems and technologies and will be a dynamic addition to the innovation ecosystem at the Geelong Future Economy Precinct at our Waurn Ponds Campus.”