Cervera Centre of Excellence

GUARDIANES is a strategic R&D network that drives the development of advanced Artificial Intelligence technologies applied to security and defense. Through collaboration among leading technology centers, the project integrates knowledge, infrastructure, and capabilities to transform data into solutions that improve decision-making in critical environments.

To achieve this, aims to strengthen Spain’s technological position by developing reliable, efficient, and secure AI capable of operating in complex scenarios. It focuses on four fundamental pillars: Data, Computing, Algorithms and Simulation, and ethical AI Governance, while also promoting technology transfer to companies and public organizations and ensuring that these advances will be validated in two realistic scenarios:

• Tactical rescue operation in a multi-domain conflict environment
• Intelligent surveillance and control of critical border infrastructure

Through these tests, GUARDIANES will demonstrate how AI can enhance national security, optimize operations, and strengthen the country’s technological capabilities.

The project is based on four scientific and technological challenges:

• Data: Improve the quality and quantity of data to train AI systems, aligning with the European Data Strategy.
• Computing: Research new models that enable AI use on resource-constrained devices, bringing computation closer to the edge.
• Algorithms and Simulation: Develop techniques to recognize scenes and generate simulated scenarios to support preparation and decision-making.
• AI Governance: Ensure ethical and regulated adoption of AI in security and defense.

GUARDIANES offers a distinctive approach based on a combination of scientific excellence, real-world application, and strategic collaboration. It develops artificial intelligence solutions specifically designed for demanding environments, such as defense operations or the protection of critical infrastructure. These technologies are not only researched but also validated in real-world scenarios, guaranteeing their applicability and reliability.

The program acts as a bridge between research and the market, facilitating access for companies and organizations to advanced technologies that improve their efficiency, responsiveness, and competitiveness.

Furthermore, it fosters a unique ecosystem in Spain that integrates talent, innovation, and technology transfer, positioning the country as an international leader in the use of AI for security and defense.