The Propulsion and Space Research Center (PSRC) has appointed three new advisors: Prof. Dr. Roberto Sabatini, Dr. Mohamed Al Ahbabi, and Prof. Dr. Pericles Pilidis. These experts bring experience in aerospace, defense, space exploration, and gas turbine performance. The appointments aim to strengthen PSRC's research capabilities and contribute to the UAE's space exploration goals. Why it matters: The addition of experienced advisors signals the UAE's continued investment in building local expertise in advanced aerospace technologies and space exploration.
Boeing has inaugurated a new Research & Technology office at KAUST's Research and Technology Park, marking Boeing's first research center in a university within the GCC. The office will focus on R&D in aerospace technologies, building on Boeing's partnership with KAUST since 2009. Boeing is currently collaborating with KAUST on six major projects in areas like advanced materials and solar power. Why it matters: The establishment of this office signifies a deepened commitment to R&D in Saudi Arabia and the region, leveraging KAUST's resources to advance aerospace technologies.
KAUST and Boeing renewed their Master Research Agreement (MRA) on September 1. The agreement aims to boost collaborative research on next-generation aerospace technologies. The renewed MRA signifies a continued partnership between the Saudi university and the American aerospace company. Why it matters: This agreement can foster innovation in aerospace within Saudi Arabia and aligns with the Kingdom's broader technology development goals.
Dr. Elias Tsoutsanis, Executive Director of the Propulsion and Space Research Center (PSRC), has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (FRAeS). The fellowship recognizes outstanding contributions to aeronautics and a distinguished career in the industry. Dr. Tsoutsanis believes this recognition will enable PSRC and TII to deepen engagement with the international aerospace ecosystem and foster collaborative research opportunities. Why it matters: This accolade enhances the visibility and credibility of UAE-based research institutions like PSRC within the global aerospace community, potentially attracting further partnerships and investments.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi has successfully designed, built, and test-fired the UAE’s first liquid rocket engine, a 250-newton thruster. The engine achieved combustion efficiencies of up to 94% during testing, with over 50 successful firings. The program aims to scale propulsion designs and develop advanced engine technologies. Why it matters: This milestone strengthens the UAE's sovereign space capabilities and enables the design of propulsion systems for orbital maneuvering and future space missions.
TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has partnered with Purdue University on a three-year cybersecurity project focused on ensuring the safe and efficient use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in urban environments. The collaboration will study security and resilience in cyber-physical and autonomous systems, addressing vulnerabilities in communication, navigation, and command and control. The project includes four phases: modeling and analysis of UAS security, developing algorithms for high-assurance autonomy, constructing an experimental environment, and testing mitigation strategies. Why it matters: The partnership enhances the UAE's capabilities in securing critical digital systems and fosters the growth of commercial autonomous drones and robots, opening new opportunities for enterprises.