CSIR and Denel formalise strategic partnership to advance South Africa’s aerospace and military technologies
Recently, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Denel have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration aimed at advancing research, technology development, innovation, knowledge sharing and technology commercialisation. The signing ceremony was held on Wednesday, 14 January 2026 at the CSIR, which was attended by the chief executives of the CSIR and Denel.
The MoU reflects the shared vision of both organisations and marks a significant milestone in their shared commitment to accelerating South Africa’s aerospace and military technologies.
The partnership reinforces the CSIR’s mandate to improve competitiveness of industry and support a capable state through science, technology and innovation. It establishes a framework for cooperation across a wide range of research, development and innovation areas.
Speaking at the ceremony, CSIR Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Thulani Dlamini, highlighted the extensive scope of the collaboration, which spans areas such as advanced manufacturing, engineering services, sensors, human capital development, maritime, missile technologies, cybersecurity, aeronautics, command, control and situational awareness platforms, space technology and joint technology commercialisation.
“The partnership represents a significant step forward in building a future-ready, innovation-led economy. By combining the CSIR’s research capabilities with Denel’s expertise, we aim to co-create solutions that not only respond to present challenges but also shape the aerospace and defence technologies of tomorrow. This collaboration will ultimately contribute towards building a capable state,” said Dlamini.
By signing the MoU, the entities aim to establish a formal foundation for joint initiatives that will enhance national competitiveness, attract investment, support the development and commercialisation of locally developed technologies and promote skills development.
Denel CEO, Tsepo Monaheng, echoed Dlamini’s sentiments. “We are excited that we have this shared vision to collaborate so we can successfully provide solutions to the SANDF and the broader security cluster to achieve national security. For us, it will always be about how we can best support and advance our country’s aerospace and defence industries. This is where we align with the CSIR, whose mission is to strengthen South Africa’s key sectors and help build a capable state. We are proud to collaborate and look forward to many fruitful opportunities that will contribute to national development.”
Both entities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and ensuring compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.
Ends.
Issued by CSIR Strategic Communication
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About the CSIR:
The CSIR, an entity of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, is one of Africa’s leading organisations in scientific and technology research, development and implementation. Constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1945 as a science council, the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans.
This year, the CSIR celebrates 80 years of touching lives through innovation. For more information, visit www.csir.co.za
About Denel
Denel is a South African State-Owned Company (SOC) that provides innovative defence, security, aerospace and related technology solutions, as a strategic partner to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
The state-owned but commercially driven company also provides products and solutions to selected clients in global markets. The group’s capabilities include defence, aerospace, security and advanced manufacturing. Denel’s defence capabilities date back to more than 70 years, when its first manufacturing plants were established.
Denel provides a wide range of sophisticated services and solutions that enhance the value of its products. The solutions are designed to meet unique user requirements and provide full lifecycle support. Denel products and capabilities include combat turrets, artillery and vehicle systems, missiles, maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft (MRO), avionics upgrades, testing of air defence systems and complex system integration.
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Published 27 January 2026