In a newly established research alliance, the University of New Brunswick will work alongside Marshall Land Systems and two Welsh universities to explore defence technology.
In a recent virtual ceremony, the University of New Brunswick, Cardiff University, the University of South Wales, and Marshall Land Systems signed a memorandum of understanding, formally establishing the Marshall Land Research Alliance.
The new transatlantic partnership brings together leading academics and technology experts from Canada and the United Kingdom to explore new technologies in the field of deployable infrastructure for military and humanitarian use.
The partnership reflects the increasing importance of defence technology in driving domestic economic growth and international cooperation between key NATO nations.
"At UNB, we take great pride in fostering strong, mutually beneficial partnerships that help us make a meaningful impact in Canada and around the world," said Dr. David MaGee, Vice President Research at UNB. "I look forward to working with Marshall Land Systems, Cardiff University, and the University of South Wales to advance innovative technologies and contribute to Canada's NATO commitments."
The alliance will create opportunities for collaborative research and development work, technology transfer, and staff exchanges, helping to develop the next generation of highly skilled talent while fostering innovation and strengthening industry partnerships.
Initial projects will focus on deployable infrastructure systems ranging from mobile CT scanners and field hospitals to mechanical maintenance facilities and command centres.
"In an increasingly volatile world, the long-standing and fundamental alliance between Canada and the UK is becoming ever more important," said Gareth Williams, CEO of Marshall Land Systems. "As NATO allies invest to protect our way of life, this transatlantic research alliance will bring together the smartest brains in support of the effort to keep us safe and the world stable."
The alliance builds on UNB's longstanding leadership in defence-aligned research and innovation. For more than four decades, UNB researchers have worked with government, industry, and international partners to develop technologies that strengthen Canada's security, resilience, and sovereignty.
"We are proud to be a founding partner in the Marshall Land Research Alliance, a bold collaboration that will help shape the future of innovation, skills, and advanced manufacturing in South Wales," said Prof. Louise Bright, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Enterprise, Engagement, and Partnerships at the University of South Wales. "USW's strengths in research, advanced manufacturing, and skills development position us to connect industry, talent, and innovation in ways that deliver real impact."
"The alliance provides opportunities for our staff to work with partners on research, innovation, and workforce development. It also comes at an important time for South Wales, with the potential to support new collaborations between universities, industry, and government," said Prof. Roger Whitaker, Cardiff University's Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Enterprise. "Through research, knowledge exchange, and skills development, we hope to contribute to opportunities for students, graduate employment, businesses, and communities, while supporting the long-term strength and resilience of the Welsh economy through research and innovation."
Marshall Land Systems, which traces its roots to 1909, has announced plans to develop a major assembly facility in South Wales in addition to its locations in Cambridge, U.K., Moncton, N.B., and the Netherlands.
UNB is home to nationally recognized expertise in cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, nuclear research, and Arctic monitoring. Through applied research and trusted partnerships, the university develops made-in-Canada solutions that support government, industry, critical infrastructure, and national defence priorities.
