SAPA will establish a new R&D technology center in Jaén

Madrid, February 6, 2025.

SAPA strengthens its commitment to innovation and technological development with the installation of a new R&D center in the Nuevo Jaén industrial park. With an estimated investment of between €12 and €18 million, this project will generate around 60 highly qualified jobs in the coming years, consolidating the province as a benchmark hub for technology applied to defense and mobility.

The new center, which will have a surface area of ​​6,000 square meters, will be located next to the Technological Center for Development and Experimentation (Cetedex), enabling synergies in the development and testing of advanced technologies in mobility, autonomous driving, and on-board energy management for military vehicles.

As part of its capabilities, the center will have a specialized test bench for the evaluation of advanced mobility systems, automation solutions, and autonomous driving in vehicles.

Furthermore, this announcement reinforces SAPA’s commitment to the province of Jaén, following the recent creation of the SAPA University Chair at the University of Jaén (UJA). This chair aims to promote training, research, and knowledge transfer in the field of Mechanical Engineering, with a special emphasis on mechanical transmissions and their application in both the defense industry and the civil automotive industry.

The project has received support from the Ministry of Defense and local authorities, highlighting its positive impact on the region’s industry and economy. Construction is expected to begin in the coming months, with the goal of having the center fully operational by 2026.

The project presentation in Madrid was attended by the Secretary of State for Defense, Amparo Valcarce; the President of the Jaén Provincial Council, Francisco Reyes; the Mayor of Jaén, Julio Millán; and representatives from the Ministry of Defense.