A new partnership between an Adelaide university and one of the world's largest arms manufacturers was met with criticism, prompting protestors to fight to end the relationship between universities and weapon dealers.

Adelaide university activist Daniel Neser described the partnership as "disgraceful" and said the 'Disarm Unis' campaign had received a lot of support.

While the partnership received criticism, University of Adelaide vice-chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen said the move would help transform the South Australian economy by attracting global industry to Adelaide.