Saab announced on Thursday that it has completed its acquisition of CrowdAI, “accelerating” the development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) / machine learning (ML) capabilities into Saab’s portfolio.
The acquisition is part of Saab’s “technology leadership in this new era for the defense industry,” the firm said in its Thursday announcement.
Sweden–based Saab is a defense and security company that designs, manufactures, and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems.
Saab acquired DeWitt–based Sensis Corp. in 2011 and split the corporation into two units — Saab Defense and Security on Enterprise Parkway and the Saab Sensis air-traffic management unit at 85 Collamer Crossing Pkwy.
Saab’s capabilities are “enhanced through proactive” acquisitions and strategic partnerships in “emerging and disruptive” technologies such as AI / ML, the company said.
The acquisition of CrowdAI — based in San Francisco, California — illustrates that “adaptive and forward-thinking approach, seamlessly integrating” AI / ML technologies within Saab’s portfolio.
Future operations will be carried out primarily in San Diego, California, Saab noted.
“CrowdAI has been a pioneer in computer vision applications to support [U.S. Department of Defense] and commercial customers,” Erik Smith, president and CEO of Saab in the U.S., said in a news release “This acquisition brings a new capability as well as deeply rooted relationships with new customers to Saab, underscoring our commitment to innovation and growth in the United States. Their talented workforce will help Saab enhance our existing portfolio with AI / ML capabilities to meet the emerging needs of our customers.”
About CrowdAI
CrowdAI says it is known for its “practical, user-friendly” no-code platform for mission-specific AI and its work leveraging dual-use computer vision for military applications. The company’s work with Fortune 500 corporations, the U.S. military, and the intelligence community has “pushed the boundaries” of AI-derived computer vision models “tailored to the unique needs” of customers, it contends.
“Joining Saab is a momentous step for us,” Devaki Raj, CEO and co-founder of CrowdAI, said in the release. “As part of Saab, the team we’ve built will open new doors for dual-use technological advancement that aligns with the DoD’s priorities. I’m eager to contribute to Saab’s important work across industries and markets.”
Devaki will join Saab, Inc.’s newly established strategy office, based in San Diego, as the chief digital and AI officer, Saab said.