SZE Signs Strategic, Development and Innovation Partnership with 4iG Space and Defence Technologies

Created: 2025.10.13. 12:04

A strategic cooperation agreement has recently been signed in Budapest between 4iG Space and Defence Technologies and Széchenyi István University of Győr. The partnership aims to strengthen the long-term supply of skilled professionals for Hungary’s space and defence sectors, promote joint research and development projects, and support both domestic and international competitiveness through innovation and academic programmes.

4iG Space and Defence Technologies is Hungary’s first privately owned large enterprise delivering cutting-edge solutions in the strategic sectors of space and defence technology. Széchenyi István University, meanwhile, is committed to enhancing its research, development, and innovation activities, particularly in technical and technological fields. The strategic agreement, serving the goals of both parties, was signed in Budapest by Dr István Sárhegyi, Chief Executive Officer of the company, and Dr Bálint Filep, President of the University.

Dr István Sárhegyi, CEO of 4iG Space and Defence Technologies, and Dr Bálint Filep, President of Széchenyi István University, signed the agreement (Photo: 4iG)

As part of the cooperation, the parties will jointly establish the “4iG SDT – Defence Tech Hub” research base within the Győr Innovation Park of Széchenyi István University. The hub will be equipped with laboratory infrastructure to support research in drone technology, cybersecurity, satellite communications, sensor and digital decision-support systems. The centre will combine industrial and academic expertise, facilitating the implementation of pilot projects and demonstrations. Closely linked to this cooperation is the USA Accelerator programme, also based in the Győr Innovation Park, which provides academic and exchange opportunities for students, lecturers, and athletes, supports domestic and regional companies entering the US market, and strengthens ties between Hungary and Central Florida.

An important element of the agreement is enhancing international visibility: the parties will jointly organise scientific conferences, participate in international research networks, and develop guest lectureship and publication partnerships – all contributing to the integration of Hungary’s innovation ecosystem. The cooperation will also extend to education and talent development: 4iG experts will take part in teaching, offer internship placements, support thesis and student research work, launch scholarship programmes, and develop career models for young engineers. Furthermore, the partnership will include dual and micro-credential education, as well as cooperative doctoral programmes.

“4iG Space and Defence Technologies is committed to technological innovation. Our agreement with Széchenyi István University simultaneously supports the training of future professionals and active engagement with international space and defence research networks. The jointly established Defence Tech Hub will not only increase domestic research and development capacities but also contribute to Hungary’s competitiveness on a global level,” emphasised Dr István Sárhegyi, CEO of 4iG Space and Defence Technologies.

“At Széchenyi István University, our priority is to ensure that our students encounter the most modern technologies and can apply this knowledge during their studies. The cooperation established with 4iG Space and Defence Technologies gives fresh impetus to this mission: it enables the implementation of projects through which our students gain direct experience and our researchers can contribute to expanding the expertise of the domestic and international professional community,” highlighted Dr Bálint Filep, President of Széchenyi István University.

Representatives of 4iG Space and Defence Technologies and Széchenyi István University (Photo: 4iG)