French jet engine maker Safran said on Monday that it had struck a deal to buy AI firm Preligens for USD 243.3 million. Preligens, specialising in artificial intelligence for aerospace and defence, will be renamed Safran.AI and become part of the Safran Electronics & Defense business area.
Safran said it develops complex algorithms and software to analyse and automatically detect and identify objects of military interest using commercial and government satellite imagery.
“By combining our strengths, we're determined not only to support the development of Preligens' AI solutions but also to jointly open up entirely new areas of AI application in aviation, defence and space,” CEO of Safran Electronics & Defence, Franck Saudo, said in a press release.
Safran has been involved in several high-profile deals including its partnership with India to co-develop jet engines for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. This deal aims to boost India's defence capabilities, marking a significant step in jet engine technology transfer, with Safran offering 100 per cent technology sharing for the engine's development.
Additionally, Safran is engaged in discussions to potentially develop the 'Sakthi' engine, which will support India's Indigenous fighter jet projects. The deal is part of a broader initiative to strengthen India's domestic defence manufacturing, aligned with the country's push for self-reliance in military technology.
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