The AI that will transform security and defense opens its doors: GUARDIANES launches a new specialized training program

Artificial intelligence is redefining how critical infrastructure is protected, how strategic data is managed, and how decisions are supported in complex environments. Yet accessing specialized knowledge in these technologies remains a challenge for many professionals and organizations.

To address this need, the GUARDIANES Excellence Network — recognized as a CERVERA Network and funded by CDTI — is launching a free, open online course for professionals, researchers and students who want to specialize in AI applied to critical environments.

AI training for security and defense driven by seven technology centers

The course brings together the knowledge generated by the network's seven technology centers — ITI (coordinator), ITG, CIRCE, CARTIF, IBV, Fidesol and Fundación CTIC — and turns it into a practical path of 4 modules, 9 topics and 21 short, self-contained learning units, delivered by specialists from these organizations and grounded in real experience, use cases and developments linked to the project's research areas.

Course program: from data spaces to responsible AI in critical environments

The content follows the four scientific-technological pillars GUARDIANES works on:

• Data — sovereign data spaces, interoperability and secure information-sharing models.
• Advanced computing — distributed computing architectures, edge computing, and neuromorphic and real-time paradigms for AI in demanding environments.
• Algorithms and simulation — advanced machine learning techniques, generative AI agent systems, computer vision for object detection and tracking, multimodal perception and mixed realities for operational support.
• AI governance — transparency, explainability, traceability of automated decisions, data governance, algorithmic bias, system robustness and responsible adoption under current regulatory frameworks, including dual-use requirements in civil and security domains.

Each unit follows the same method: real challenge, conceptual framework, demonstration with use cases, and an honest look at when not to apply the technology — an unusual approach in AI training, especially relevant for those working in critical sectors (energy, water, transport, healthcare), dual-use sectors (aerospace, automotive, cybersecurity) and defense.

Price, dates and certificate

• Price: Free.
• Format: Online and asynchronous — learners progress at their own pace.
• Dates: enrollment open from November 2, 2026; the course runs from November 16, 2026 to March 15, 2027.
• Certificate: available on passing 70% of each module's questions, with automatic digital download.

GUARDIANES: CDTI-funded Excellence Network in AI for security and defense

The GUARDIANES project drives the development of AI technologies for security and defense in Spain, integrating research, infrastructure and transfer to companies and public bodies. This course is one of the knowledge-transfer actions the consortium is driving to strengthen the Spanish ecosystem's capabilities in advanced AI technologies.

Full information on the program, speakers and enrollment is available on the training page.