Spika Tech is a deep-tech company focused on solving critical social challenges through innovation and advanced technology. Originally an IT research lab at Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Spika Tech has evolved into a noted developer of AI-driven software solutions for healthcare, defense, and robotics.
Interview with Fernando Pozo, COO at Spika Tech.
A brief description of the company and its activities
Fernando Pozo: One of our flagship products, VR-CARDIO, is a non-invasive medical device that leverages advanced algorithms and XR reality to assist clinical professionals in identifying and treating arrhythmia. In robotics, we have developed a modular autonomous robotic platform incorporating AI, vision systems, and NLP for applications in several industries. We also develop cutting-edge technologies in collaboration with top European defense and aeronautics firms, including Airbus, Indra, Leonardo, Saab, and Thales, creating advanced solutions for security, automation, and intelligent systems. Remarkably, just before ending 2024, Spika Tech was recognized as an International Success Case by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA), reaffirming our leadership in disruptive technologies aimed at improving quality of life.
What are the main areas of activity of the company?
F.P: The core expertise of Spika Tech lies in applying advanced algorithms and innovative technologies in software development to address specific critical challenges. This capability has led us to identify opportunities in healthcare, resulting in the creation of VR-CARDIO, a solution that integrates our core expertise (VR/AR, AI and advanced algorithms) to assist in the detection of different types of arrhythmias, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and improving patient outcomes. Also, in the field of robotics, we have developed PRAS, a modular autonomous robotic platform that integrates AI, vision systems, and NLP. PRAS is designed for fulfill necessities in diverse fields like security, logistics, healthcare, or industrial automation, offering adaptability to optimize operational efficiency across diverse industries. By leveraging our expertise in software development and algorithmic solutions, PRAS will enhance autonomous capabilities, enabling smarter and more efficient robotic operations. In the defense tech, we continue applying our expertise and knowledge to several projects with diverse applications like electromagnetic warfare, air traffic management, sensor technology, and AI-driven autonomous systems. By collaborating with major European defense and aeronautics firms, we contribute to the development of security, surveillance, and automation technologies that enhance decision-making and system interoperability in high-security environments.
What’s the news about new products/services?
F.P: In 2024, we achieved a significant milestone in our commitment to quality standards by certifying ourselves as medical software manufacturers under ISO 13485. Additionally, we have implemented IT security methodologies in line with ISO 27001 and are set to obtain certification in 2025. These steps reinforce our commitment to developing high-quality and secure software solutions. In the healthcare sector, VR-CARDIO is approaching regulatory approval as a certified medical software device, with market entry planned for 2025. We have already initiated contact with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for product certification, and, from 2024, we hold a manufacturer license granted by the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS). As commented, this technology provides a real-time, non-invasive solution for cardiac arrhythmia detection, improving diagnostic capabilities and reducing the need for invasive procedures.
PRAS, our next-generation autonomous robotics platform, integrates AI and automation, focusing on applications specially related to industrial efficiency. PRAS is designed to improve operational reliability across various sectors. In defense, we continue to participate in strategic European programs that enhance interoperability, cybersecurity, and airspace surveillance. These projects position Spika Tech as a noted contributor to defense innovation, applying AI and automation to critical security challenges. All these initiatives are part of our long-term expansion strategy, ensuring Spika Tech’s continuous growth in the coming years and reinforcing our position as a leader in medical technology, robotics, and defense applications.
What are the ranges of products/services?
F.P: Spika Tech delivers sota deep tech solutions, specializing in healthcare, robotics, and defense. We leverage expertise in machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, and advanced algorithmic techniques, alongside VR/AR/XR and iot technologies. Our technical capabilities range from traditional predictive analytics, developing immersive visualization to new and upcoming implementations of LLMs, using these technologies to smarter systems for different applications. We apply these technologies while thriving in an ecosystem that promote continuous r and d. Our access to top-tier talent from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (home to over 45k students and nearly 100k alumni) serve us to drive transformation through our expertise. This dynamic environment allows us to offer deep tech solutions as a service, ensuring our partners benefit from high-performance technologies customized to their complex operational needs.
What are the most innovative products/services marketed?
F.P: The deep-tech and AI market is undergoing significant expansion, driven by the increasing demand for automation, intelligent decision-making, and data-driven solutions across industries. From healthcare to defense and robotics, AI-powered innovations are reshaping how organizations operate, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and security. The top companies of this transformation are focusing on integrating AI with cutting-edge hardware and software to develop solutions that address critical societal and industrial challenges. Particularly in the healthcare sector, the demand for AI-driven cardiology solutions is accelerating.
Just the electrophysiology devices market, where VR-CARDIO is gonna operate is projected to reach $10.07 billion with a 13.9% CAGR by 2030. VR-CARDIO is addressing this need by providing an efficient, non-invasive diagnostic tool that enhances early detection and treatment of arrhythmias. By improving patient outcomes while reducing reliance on invasive procedures, VR-CARDIO is positioning itself as a disruptive solution in modern cardiology. In defense tech, investment in AI and autonomous systems continues to rise, with a strong focus on airspace security and strategic military applications. European enterprises are increasingly collaborating on next-gen solutions that enhance interoperability, cybersecurity, and situational awareness.
Our involvement in key European defense projects reinforces its role as a leading provider of AI-driven security and surveillance technologies, working alongside industry giants such as Airbus, Indra, Leonardo, Saab, and Thales. Finally, it is important to say that the robotics industry is experiencing rapid adoption of automation and AI-powered robotic systems across multiple sectors, including industrial, healthcare, and security applications. Businesses are integrating intelligent robotic solutions to optimize operations, reduce reliance on manual processes, and increase efficiency. Our robotics platform is at the participating on this transformation, offering a scalable, autonomous robotics platform designed to adapt to the evolving needs of modern industries.
What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2025?
F.P: By early 2025, VR-CARDIO is expected to secure CE marking and FDA approval, with initial deployments in hospitals. Our robotics division is expanding its reach, while we strengthen our defense sector collaborations through new European security initiatives. Additionally, we are launching a €150 million investment fund in partnership with German and Irish firms, aimed at accelerating innovation in healthcare, robotics, and defense. Spika Tech will also present its latest advancements in AI-driven robotics and medical technology at Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, further solidifying our presence in these industries.