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, and 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 CSIR said the partnership reinforces its mandate to improve industry’s competitiveness 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, 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.
The CSIR is an entity of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, while Denel is a state-owned but commercially-driven company which also provides products and solutions to clients in global markets.
