Tematys at SPIE Photonics Europe 2026: Driving Innovation Across Defence, AI, and Quantum Technologies
SPIE Photonics Europe 2026, 12-16 April 2026, Strasbourg, France
The 2026 edition of SPIE Photonics Europe 2026, held at the Palais des Congrès in Strasbourg, brought together leading researchers, industry players, and innovators to explore the latest advances in optics and photonics.
Tematys was pleased to actively contribute to the event through expert presentations and participation in the Photonics Marketplace sessions—highlighting key developments across defence, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies.
Photonics for Strategic Applications
During Photonics Marketplace I (14 April), Tematys experts shared insights into high-impact application domains:
- Thierry Robin addressed the growing importance of photonics in defence, emphasizing its role in enhancing resilience and advanced sensing capabilities.
- Benoît d’Humières explored how photonics is accelerating AI systems, particularly through high-speed data processing and optical interconnects.
These discussions highlighted how photonics is increasingly embedded in mission-critical and data-intensive applications.


European Innovation in Action
On 15 April, the focus shifted to collaborative innovation through Horizon Europe initiatives:
- WAVETAILOR is pushing the boundaries of modular laser source design, enabling more sustainable and flexible manufacturing solutions.
- Qu-PIC aims to establish a universal quantum photonic integrated circuit platform, strengthening Europe’s position in the global quantum technology landscape.
Both projects exemplify the strategic importance of European collaboration in scaling deep-tech innovation.


