University of Exeter and Adelaide University strengthen ties on developing digital capabilities for defence
Exeter's Prof Richard Follett and Prof Anton Middelberg from Adelaide University. Photo: Sam Howson
The University of Exeter has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Adelaide University, deepening their shared commitment to data-driven research, and the development of digital capabilities, in the Defence and Security sectors.
The agreement, formalised during a ceremony in London on 10 September 2025, will strengthen ties between Defence Data Research Centre (DDRC), led by Exeter, and the Australian Defence Technologies Academy (ADTA), part of Adelaide University.
The DDRC is a transdisciplinary research centre that aims to accelerate the impact of data science and AI for the defence community.
The ADTA delivers fast-tracked workforce development through innovation-led learning, targeted technology delivery, and domain-specific expertise to operationalise real-world solutions in support of Australia’s national security and defence priorities.
Professor Richard Follett, Vice President and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Global) at the University of Exeter, said: “The University of Exeter Defence, Security and Resilience network brings together over 200 University of Exeter academics working towards a more secure global future.
“The Defence Data Research Centre is a key component of this, recognising the need to improve the use of data in the defence community, and we have found a natural partner in the Australian Defence Technologies Academy at Adelaide University.
“Building on a strong existing relationship, this MoU will only accelerate our partnership delivering outcomes that can only inform and strengthen the AUKUS security partnership.”
Initially the two parties work together to develop a three-year plan to guide priorities and joint activities relating to research, education and entrepreneurship. Areas of focus will include developing the workforce, AI/Autonomy, advanced cyber technologies and information advantage, strategic decision making, the use of emerging technologies and entrepreneurship and innovation.
Adelaide University’s Professor Anton Middelberg FTSE, Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation said: “Adelaide University’s Defence and National Security academic community focuses on a wide array of national priorities, aligned with our Defence and National Security Signature Research Theme.
“Key to many of these are advanced approaches to data science and technology, where the strengths of DDRC combined with ADTA capabilities offer opportunities to accelerate development of priority solutions for both nations.”
The Defence Data Research Centre (DDRC) was a finalist in the British Data Awards 2025.
