12 Mar 2026 Industry and Academia Join Forces: DOK‑ING, Ericsson Nikola Tesla, FER and FSB Accelerate Next Gen Technologies Development
PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN INDUSTRY AND THE ACADEMIC COMMUNITY FOCUSED ON ROBOTICS, AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS, AND ADVANCED DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
Zagreb, 12 March 2026 – Croatian high‑tech companies DOK‑ING and Ericsson Nikola Tesla (ENT), together with two leading scientific and research institutions, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture (FSB), have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at developing next‑generation unmanned systems and advanced robotic solutions. This agreement, representing a strong collaboration between science and Croatian industry, lays the foundation for a triple-helix partnership model.
The agreement defines a framework for the exchange of knowledge, research capacities, and technological expertise between industry and academia, creating opportunities for joint development and research projects in robotics, autonomous systems, and digital technologies.
Industry and Academia as Drivers of Technological Innovation
Within this partnership, DOK‑ING will serve as the leading industrial partner, while Ericsson Nikola Tesla will contribute with its expertise in communication and digital technologies. The academic partners – FER and FSB – will participate in research and development of key technological components, including autonomous systems, mechatronics, artificial intelligence, and advanced engineering systems.
The goal of this collaboration is to connect the industrial experience and development capacities of the private sector with the research potential of Croatian technical faculties, accelerating the creation of new technologies. The signatories emphasize that the initiative aims to build a strong long‑term industrial‑scientific ecosystem in Croatia, stimulate the development of advanced technologies, and strengthen the position of domestic industry in robotics, autonomous systems, and digital solutions.
“The development of complex technological systems today is nearly impossible without strong cooperation between industry and the scientific community. This model of collaboration is therefore crucial for the long‑term growth of domestic industry and the creation of new technologies,” said Ante Bakić, CTO at DOK‑ING.
“DOK‑ING has long maintained cooperation with the faculties of the University of Zagreb, and I would also highlight the importance of collaboration with ENT. With this agreement, we aim to establish a systematic approach to working with FER and FSB, helping us explore and apply new technologies in the robotic systems we develop. This accelerates the transfer of academic knowledge into concrete technological solutions, while industry gains access to cutting‑edge research and emerging talent. Such partnerships create the foundation for technologies that can compete globally,” added Bakić.
Hrvoje Benčić, Management Board Member at Ericsson Nikola Tesla, stated:
“Academic excellence combined with extensive industrial experience provides a strong basis for launching new research initiatives and developing technologies that can shape future industry directions. These projects strengthen not only individual ideas and results, but also the overall intellectual capacity of the country, raising expertise and creating the foundation for long‑term technological progress.”
Prof. Zdenko Tonković, Dean of FSB, added:
“Collaboration between faculties and strong strategic partners is essential for developing advanced technological solutions and defining long‑term research directions that also open opportunities for scientific careers. Aligning research with industry needs enhances engineering competencies in companies and strengthens the expertise of researchers at the faculty, boosting research, teaching, and innovation potential. This creates a powerful innovation environment that connects scientific excellence, industrial needs, and new technologies, contributing to the competitiveness and long‑term technological development of Croatia.”
Prof. Vedran Bilas, Dean of FER, emphasized:
“FER has a long and successful collaboration with all partners in this initiative. Together, we represent a force that gives new momentum to research excellence and technological progress in Croatia. We look forward to the opportunities this partnership brings for developing the careers of new technology experts and leaders.”
The Triple Helix Model is the Foundation of Technological Development
The triple helix model represents close cooperation between industry, research institutions, and public administration in developing new technologies.
Over recent decades, this model has become one of the key drivers of technological innovation in the world’s most advanced economies, enabling faster transfer of knowledge from research institutions into industrial applications.
About DOK‑ING
DOK‑ING is a technology‑driven company specializing in the development and production of advanced unmanned systems designed for operations in hazardous and high‑risk environments. Its core portfolio includes remotely operated and increasingly autonomous platforms supporting humanitarian and military demining, military engineering operations, CBRN response and critical infrastructure protection.
The company’s solutions are based on modular and scalable architectures enabling rapid adaptation to mission‑specific requirements, including demining, IED disposal, route clearance, firefighting, and other complex operational tasks. With a strong commitment to safety, reliability, and operational excellence, DOK‑ING delivers field‑proven systems that enhance force protection and reduce human exposure to risk, serving armed forces, civil protection agencies, and specialized security operators worldwide.
About ENT
Ericsson Nikola Tesla is the largest ICT company in Croatia and a regional provider of communication products, related services, and innovative ICT solutions for the digitalization of various industries and public services.
ENT operates the largest R&D center in Croatia and the region and is a leader in software development exports. The company is committed to creating advanced technologies, responsible business practices, and sustainable development for the benefit of society and individuals.
Ericsson Nikola Tesla shares are traded on the Zagreb Stock Exchange under the symbol ERNT‑R‑A.
About FSB
The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture of the University of Zagreb is Croatia’s leading scientific‑research and educational institution in mechanical engineering, naval architecture, and aeronautical engineering, and one of the leading institutions in mechatronics and robotics.
The faculty develops advanced research and innovative engineering solutions in robotics, mechatronics, structural engineering, process and energy engineering, hydrogen and renewable energy, engines and transport systems, shipbuilding, aeronautical and space engineering, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, computer simulations, new materials and manufacturing technologies, and biomedical engineering.
Through national and international projects and strong cooperation with industry, FSB actively contributes to knowledge transfer and the development of advanced technologies.
About FER
FER is Croatia’s leading higher‑education and research institution in electrical engineering, computing, and information and communication technologies.
For decades, the faculty has built a reputation as a center of excellence in Croatia and Europe. Its strong collaboration with industry is reflected in numerous research projects with domestic and international partners, enabling rapid adaptation to labor‑market trends.
This close connection with industry allows students to work on real projects during their studies, gain practical skills, and establish early professional contacts. FER is a strong brand and an incubator of excellence, shaping future engineers, researchers, and leaders.
