Safran has completed the $243 million purchase of the French artificial intelligence (AI) firm Preligens, following a negotiation process that began in June 2024. As part of the agreement, Preligens will be renamed Safran.AI and integrated into Safran Electronics & Defense, a key division within the company. This acquisition is expected to significantly accelerate the development of AI technologies within Safran’s products and services. Comment According to Safran, Preligens provides AI analytics solutions for high-resolution imagery, full-motion video, and acoustic signals. The firm develops complex algorithms and software to analyze and automatically detect and identify objects of military interest, notably using commercial and government satellite imagery. The company has built a strong reputation for its innovative AI capabilities, which will now be leveraged to strengthen Safran’s position in the defense and aerospace sectors. The many synergies with Safran will enable us to develop new AI product lines and accelerate our international expansion, which is excellent news for our business and our people.” The acquisition reinforces Safran Electronics & Defense’s commitment to AI, complementing its expertise in optronics, space communications, and inertial navigation. Integrating Preligens’ solutions will allow Safran to accelerate the incorporation of AI into its products and services, providing reliable information and decision support for operators in surveillance and identification within the defense and space sectors. Additionally, this strategic move positions Safran to enhance its technological offerings by integrating AI-driven applications into Industry 4.0, such as using AI-powered image analytics to assist in quality control processes. Safran’s global reach is expected to support Preligens’ expansion, particularly in the U.S. market, and bolster Safran’s broader digital transformation strategy. Preligens has previously gained attention for its AI algorithms, capable of automatically detecting military equipment and identifying unusual movements using satellite imagery. Comment It secured a framework contract with the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) valued at up to 240 million euros under the TORNADE program, aimed at providing AI-driven optical and radar processing for the French military. However, Preligens faced challenges earlier this year when key contracts related to radar and optical imagery were not renewed, impacting nearly half of the company’s revenue. Comment Safran’s acquisition of Preligens is seen as a timely move to secure its growth and development, especially as AI becomes increasingly vital in modern defense operations. The deal aligns with Safran’s strategy to bolster its expertise in AI and expand its presence in international markets, particularly in the rapidly growing U.S. defense sector. For more news and trends, visit AI News on our website.
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Safran’s €220M Bet on AI: Acquires Preligens to Boost Defense Capabilities!
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Digital marketing enthusiast by day, nature wanderer by dusk. Dave Andre blends two decades of AI and SaaS expertise into impactful strategies for SMEs. His weekends? Lost in books on tech trends and rejuvenating on scenic trails.Dave Andre
Digital marketing enthusiast by day, nature wanderer by dusk. Dave Andre blends two decades of AI and SaaS expertise into impactful strategies for SMEs. His weekends? Lost in books on tech trends and rejuvenating on scenic trails.
Key Takeaways:
Jean-Yves Courtois, CEO of Preligens, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “Joining Safran marks a new stage in Preligens’ development. We’re proud to be helping create a world-class AI center of expertise for one of the flagships of French industry.
Franck Saudo, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defense, also welcomed the acquisition, saying, “We recognize how far their teams have already come, and we’re proud to now be working with them to help further develop their AI solutions. 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, defense, and space.”
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Digital marketing enthusiast by day, nature wanderer by dusk. Dave Andre blends two decades of AI and SaaS expertise into impactful strategies for SMEs. His weekends? Lost in books on tech trends and rejuvenating on scenic trails.
