SignalGeneriX's COO on how drones, robotics and AI are taking "centre stage in the theatre of modern warfare"

With two decades of international experience, SignalGeneriX specialises in electronic product development, delivering a broad portfolio of cutting-edge technologies for the Security and Defence industries.

At Eurosatory 2024 in Paris, it showcased two cutting-edge products: the RFHunter®, manpack electronic warfare system, which won two prestigious international Army Technology Excellence Awards, and the LOTUS high-performance AI-enabled edge computer, now deployed on tactical UAVs and expanding to other autonomous airborne, ground and naval platforms.

In the February issue of GOLD magazine, the company's COO, Marios Milis, describes how the war in Ukraine has highlighted a new paradigm in modern warfare, gives his take on the local defence industry and explains how drones, robotics and AI are taking "centre stage in the theatre of modern warfare".

Our part of the world has long been defined by conflict and uncertainty. Why do you believe that it has now become important for Cyprus to invest in the defence sector?

The war in Ukraine has highlighted a new paradigm in modern warfare, where low-cost, intelligent autonomous systems such as drones, AI and electronic warfare systems can effectively neutralise high-value military assets, including tanks and warships. This shift presents a major opportunity for Cypriot companies, leveraging their existing technological capabilities while requiring far less investment than traditional heavy defence industries. Investing in this sector is not only crucial for driving economic growth in a rapidly expanding industry but is also essential for safeguarding Cyprus’ sovereign and strategic autonomy.

While European defence R&D spending increased significantly – it reached €11 billion in 2023, more than double the amount spent in 2016 – the US and China still outspend the EU. How does this disparity impact your ability to innovate and compete on a global scale? Are there any other structural issues on a European level that need to be addressed?

Ranked first among all European SMEs in EDIDP project participation, SignalGeneriX has a clear strategic plan to fully capitalise on emerging opportunities. Our successful participation in six EDIDP and six highly competitive EDF defence technology projects – collectively exceeding €180 million in budget – has enabled us to secure approximately €5 million in funding. This has driven the development of advanced defence capabilities, the creation of cutting-edge technologies and products and the establishment of strategic agreements with leading European manufacturers for their deployment. As the EU ramps up its defence initiatives, with new programmes surpassing €500 billion on the horizon, SignalGeneriX is well-positioned to expand its role within the European defence ecosystem. At the European level, we face the challenge of entering competitive consortia due to our small size and Cyprus’ remote location but we overcome this by investing in our defence capabilities and innovation,.

On a local level, does the relatively small size of Cyprus’ defence cluster present challenges in competing with larger ecosystems or are there unique strengths you can leverage?

The local defence industry is still in its early stages but it is dynamic and rapidly evolving, acquiring new defence capabilities each year. Our company’s success in this sector is not solely determined by size but by advanced capabilities, innovation and cutting-edge technologies. With the implementation of the six new measures announced by the Government, the competitiveness and economic impact of the Cypriot defence industry are set to grow significantly.

Cyprus is strengthening its defence ties with nations like the US and France and aims to allocate 2% of its GDP to defence spending. Has this impacted your work? How can Cyprus become a key player in Europe’s defence ecosystem?

At SignalGeneriX, we have built strong collaborations with French companies and, as the framework for cooperation with the United States becomes clearer, we look forward to establishing partnerships with US companies as well. Expanding into the international market is crucial for growth but it presents significant challenges. To navigate this, we strategically collaborate with key European partners, allowing us to enhance our technological capabilities, strengthen our market presence and expand our international footprint.

Finally, as drones, robotics and AI take centre stage in the theatre of modern warfare, what do you see as the next defining innovation?

I believe that quantum computing will be a game-changer, revolutionising everything we know today. Its unparalleled computational power and speed have far-reaching applications in defence, particularly in secure communications and encryption, where it will redefine security and operational capabilities.

Collaborations

SignalGeneriX collaborates on EDF projects with top defence firms like MBDA, Naval Group, Safran, Rheinmetall, Thales, General Dynamics, Leonardo, Indra, PLATH and Onera, utilising its technologies in the development of advanced European defence systems. For example, RFHunter® integrates into armoured vehicles and weapon stations produced by Spanish and French manufacturers, enhancing their electromagnetic situational awareness and protection. Its AI-enabled edge computer allows real-time image processing on UAVs and unmanned surface vehicles. It also actively contributes to collaborative projects, advancing passive radar technologies, autonomous naval surveillance platforms, anti-drone systems and tactical UAVs.

• This article was first published in the February issue of GOLD magazine. To view it click here