GIST Advanced Photonics Research Institute and the Institute of Applied Physics at the University of Bern to develop a special optical fiber laser for defense in cooperation with Hanwha Defense Systems

□ The Advanced Photonics Research Institute (APRI, Director Byeong Ha Lee) at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST, President Seung Hyeon Moon) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Institute of Applied Physics at the University of Bern in Switzerland (IAP, Director Thomas Feurer) and with Hanwha Defense Systems (Representative Sungsoo Lee) on September 8, 2017.

□ APRI and IAP have been conducting joint research on the development of high-performance optical fiber lasers since 2012 and will jointly establish the International Collaborative Research Center for High Performance Optical Fiber Lasers. The addition of Hanwha Defense Systems is expected to be a major improvement in the performance and commercialization of special fiber optical lasers for defense.

∘ University of Bern, renowned for its excellent education system in Switzerland, has expertise in basic physics, environmental climate change, aerospace, and pharmacy. The Institute of Applied Physics, located at the university, was established in June 1961, the first year laser was invented. It is a research institute specializing in laser and optics and has expertise in the design and fabrication of technology for the use of special optical fibers and high-performance optical fiber lasers.

□ The International Collaborative Research Center for High Performance Optical Fiber Lasers, which will be established through an MoU, will develop advanced next-generation laser technologies for aerospace and defense. This center will develop specialized convergence technology in aviation, aerospace, and defense.

∘ Based on the original technology of IAP in Bern, Switzerland, and the high-level system design and manufacturing technology of APRI, the collaborators will be working closely with Hanwha Defense to develop advanced fiber laser technologies required in the aerospace and defense sectors. The adoption of advanced technologies through international research and collaborative research and expansion is expected to be a major contributor in increasing national core competency of applied technologies for aerospace, aerospace, and defense-related fiber lasers.

□ APRI Director Byeong Ha Lee said, " In addition to the prestigious research institutes in Asia, including Vietnam and the University of the Philippines, we will expand our exchanges with advanced research institutes in Germany, England, and Poland."

□ APRI has recently been designated as a national defense research institute.