Demonstrating commitment to robotics and global defense, Paramount Group has launched a robotics division including unmanned ground, air and sea vehicles by investing $9 million.
The announcement was made via DefenceWeb, a leading news portal for the entire African continent.
Although the research and development investment in robotics comes from Paramount?s own funds, Paramount plans to explore co-development with global partners, universities and other institutions, the firm?s leader says.
Underscoring its intentions, Paramount, of South Africa, also recently purchased Aerosud Aerospace systems and Veecraft Marine.
Executive Chairman Ivor Ichikowitz said these moves ?are a true testament to the skillset and entrepreneurial spirit of the continent. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary at the same time as South Africa celebrates its 20 years of democracy, we are proud to be recognized as global innovators with world-leading technologies and solutions. The development of the defense industry will go a long way towards creating an indigenous African capability that will deal with threats to the security of the continent.?
?The next generation of innovation in the global defense and security sector will be in the robotics sector,” he said. “As warfare becomes more complex and the political risk associated with loss of life becomes more sensitive, both sophisticated and developing defense forces alike are investing in reducing the number of soldiers exposed to dangerous environments. In light of this we are pleased to announce the establishment of Paramount Robotic Systems ? a consolidation of Paramount?s mission systems, unmanned and robotics capabilities across land, sea and air. This division will consolidate Paramount?s robotics research and development activities as well as the organization?s current unmanned programs.?
He said the company will put the money into robotics R&D, ?bringing to market some of the most exciting innovations in the autonomous defense space. We are now focused on developing unmanned robot systems that take the human element out of the equation. This is a first for Africa and the Southern hemisphere, and we are very excited to be forging the way to making South Africa world leaders in the robotics industry.?
Paramount Group previously gained unmanned aerial vehicle capabilities through the acquisition of Advanced Technologies and Engineering (now Paramount Advanced Technologies). Paramount has also proposed an unmanned version of its Advanced High-Performance Reconnaissance Light Aircraft. On the naval side, the company has a remotely operated Guardian vessel.
Ichikowitz is known as an industrialist, investor, international business leader and philanthropist in his native country.
Paramount Group operates from five locations in South Africa and has a European regional headquarters in Nicosia, Cyprus.
