Naval Group has acquired 20 percent of cortAIx France, Thales' accelerator for artificial intelligence in critical systems. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development and implementation of AI solutions for defence systems, with a particular focus on cybersecurity, protection of sensitive data, and national technological sovereignty.
Naval Group states that the investment aligns with the company's long-term strategy to enhance innovation and technological competitiveness in naval defence capability through digitalisation and advanced technology.
“Naval Group's entry into the ownership of cortAIx France is an important step for the company in its efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into naval systems. It reflects an ambition to move beyond traditional architectures and innovation models, in favour of sovereign and controlled AI, which is crucial for building the naval warfare of tomorrow,” says Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group.
As part of the partnership, a dedicated AI centre will be established in southern France, in close proximity to Naval Group's operations in the region. Specialists from Naval Group, including experts from the company's digital competence centre in Ollioules, will be integrated into cortAIx France's team and contribute with in-depth knowledge of naval defence systems.
“The collaboration between two leading players in the defence sector brings together expertise and accelerates the integration of sovereign AI in critical systems, to more quickly meet the challenges of the armed forces. The alliance will help provide them with an advantage in an increasingly complex environment with more and more immediate threats, while maintaining human control,” says Patrice Caine, Chairman and CEO of Thales.
CortAIx was launched by Thales in 2024 and its operations include research, engineering development, and industrialisation of AI for critical environments.