European command and control system

Code: 23348 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-C4ISR-EC2 | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

An effective and robust EU military C2 capability for missions and operations is an essential element of the overall EU effort regarding the CSDP. The lack of an adequate Joint C2 system in the EU military C2 structure is a critical shortfall identified in the EU High Impact Capability Goals 2020 and capability development processes in the area of cross-domain capabilities contributing to achieve EU’s Level of Ambition (LoA), particularly, capabilities to operate autonomously within EU’s LoA. This is especially pressing for the development of the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), which is currently not able to achieve the Full Operational Capable status with the current C2 and CIS arrangements. Interoperability with existing or in-development national C2 systems is of key importance in order to ensure the seamless coordination of joint and combined (EU) military operations.

Naval Collaborative Surveillance

Code: 23346 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-NAVAL-NCS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

In the context of a changing geopolitical landscape, European Military Forces are facing new and evolving threats that are smaller, faster and more diverse, with increased manoeuvrability, like for instance Ballistic Missiles (BMs), Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGV) and Hypersonic Cruise Missiles (HCM), and swarmed attacks in a sensor adverse environment (e.g., stealth target, high target mix, environmental clutter, electronic attack).

Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) in the naval domain requires new technological developments to ensure lasting superiority at sea of EU naval surface vessels. Successful engagement to counter new threats can only be done by significantly reducing times as regards detection, tracking, identification and engagement.

EU navies already operate a variety of high-end sensors and weapons controlled by several combat management system, interconnected through Tactical Data Links (TDL) and other communication means, or have these under development. However, communications used nowadays (e.g., TDL 16/22) do not provide the speed, precision, configuration and update rate that enable successful engagements of future threats. Key challenge is to move from these existing capabilities to a naval collaborative surveillance ability in the Above Water Warfare (AWW) domain, based on real-time Plot Level Data Exchange and Fusion (PLDEF), emanating from diverse and heterogeneous platforms (ships or aerial) and relying on adequate and resilient communication means.

This new Naval Cooperative Surveillance (NCS) capability is considered as a first step and the basis for a capability on effector coordination (i.e., Force Threat Evaluation and Weapon Assignment) and Naval Collaborative Engagement (NCE).

Airborne electronic warfare

Code: 23343 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-AIR-AEW | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The proliferation of advanced long-range Integrated Air Defence Systems (IADS), incorporating threats that can operate across different frequency bands and attack aircraft at ranges up to 400 km, could create Anti Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) areas.
In such A2/AD areas, which could equally affect EU Member States’ and associated countries’ airspace, air operations including projection of forces by air would not be possible in case of emergence of a crisis.

As European forces increasingly face sophisticated long range IADS and A2/AD systems, airborne electronic attack (AEA) capabilities become essential to create safe bubbles around formations of aircraft. From the operational perspective, the AEA
capability must be able to mitigate Electro Magnetic (EM) threats in the largest possible Radio Frequency (RF) spectrum used in military operations. The effects should be coordinated with stand-in, stand-off, self-protection of manned and
unmanned platforms. This implies to operate in a consistent and a synergetic way all the assets of the electronic warfare (transmitter, receiver) that would be in motion and in different places.

Space-based missile early warning

Code: 23341 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-SPACE-SBMEW | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Taking into full consideration the ongoing EU, Member States and Norway funded activities in this domain, the topic general objective is to contribute to the further development of a European space-based early warning capability against various types of missile threats: ballistic, hypersonic and anti-satellites (ASAT). This topic will focus on the one hand, on the consolidation of the overall system architecture and on the other hand, on the development of the critical technologies needed for such capability.

Deployable special operations forces multi-environment command post and C2 System

Code: 23338 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-C4ISR-SOFC2 | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

In the context of CSDP operations, Small Joint Operations (SJO) conducted by Special Operation Forces (SOF) can provide a wide array of flexible military options for a rapid and effective response to the whole spectrum and all the stages of the fastevolving crisis management landscape. The use of SOF can evidently decrease the risk of escalation that is generally associated with the employment of larger and more visible combat forces. Furthermore, SOF can be used in order to prepare and
incorporate the full capacity and rapid deployment of such larger EU military forces and reinforce their operational capacities when they are already deployed in an operational theatre, in order to stabilise a deteriorating situation.

SOF can also contribute to the effort to maintain the maritime security across Mediterranean Sea, to conduct maritime security and interdiction operations in the context of combating maritime terrorist, to mitigate refugee flows and intercept illegal
trafficking of people and goods.

Non-thematic research actions by SMEs and research organisations

Code: 23331 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-LS-RA-SMERO-NT | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

This call encourages the driving role of innovative SMEs in bringing forward innovation defence research, possibly by adapting technologies from civil applications or addressing hybrid warfare. Successful SME beneficiaries may be offered Business Coaching, to reduce the time of bringing the results to the next phase, e.g., development.

Collaborative combat for land forces

Code: 23316 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-GROUND-CGC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

In the next 10 to 15 years, the evolution of threats will drastically change the management of land operations linked to other domains. Our forces will face a new conflict, including technological dissemination and porosity between different categories of opponents. Future asymmetric enemies will benefit from this dissemination, which may include advanced systems such as long-range antitank missiles as well as armoured vehicles and unmanned autonomous aerial and ground systems (UAxS). Threats will also reveal through immaterial and non-kinetic actions (information, cyber, electromagnetic), and even through hybrid warfare (mix of
military and non-military activities). Space, which supports air-land operations, will also become a domain of confrontation.

Medium-size semi-autonomous surface vessel

Code: 23314 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-NAVAL-MSAS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The goal is to study, design, prototype and test a medium-sized semi-autonomous surface vessel (MSAS) with at least an ISR modular mission payload. Medium-sized should be understood as a vessel that can host the designed mission modules, be optionally manned based on the level of ambition described in scope and functional requirements sections of this call text.

Cybersecurity and systems for improved resilience

Code: 23312 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-CYBER-CSIR | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Kinetic and digital military operations increasingly rely on computers and networked communications for information gathering, intelligence, coordination and weapon control. At the same time as the dependencies on digital technologies rapidly grows, so does the potential threats and vulnerabilities. The global community, military, and battlefield may be affected by increasing threats. Furthermore, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become widely integrated into a variety of sectors and industries, offering “readymade” solutions for surveillance, monitoring, healthcare, and military platforms. Examples for IoT devices are drones, software defined radios, sensors (cameras, humidity, temperature), TV devices, cars/vehicles). Many IoT solutions are designed primarily for functionality, without being properly secured. As a result, attacks on IoT environments have gained momentum due to the increased attack surface. Therefore, the need for cybersecurity services, including ensuring an appropriate level of control and prevention (e.g., over data, communications, systems), must be addressed.

Modelling, simulation and simulator integration contributing to decision-making and training

Code: 23171 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-SIMTRAIN-MSSI | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

This proposal should lead to an enhanced EU military training and decision-making capability by connecting individual national systems through distributed solutions. Achieving the added benefit of sharing and pooling resources across EU through a shared ecosystem of simulation services. The goal of this initiative should be to establish a Distributed Synthetic Training and decision-making capability in Europe.

Smart and multifunctional textiles

Code: 23169 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-MATCOMP-SMT | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Soldier equipment needs to allow for activities that are often physically demanding, while bringing protection, situational awareness and preserving capacity to act, endurance, and mobility. The garment is an integral part of that equipment and must meet this challenge. Smart and multifunctional textiles are a new generation of materials and systems with multifunctional properties which, given their ability of being integrated into uniforms, have drawn the attention of the defence community.

Smart textiles are defined as textiles able to interact with their surroundings: they respond and adapt to a given stimulus. Functional textiles provide an additional and specific function through their composition, their construction and/or their finish. Typically, these functions encompass enhanced mechanical resistance, water and/or dirt repellence, fire retardancy, antibacterial properties, protection against ultraviolet
radiation, pest or chemicals, thermal isolation, etc. Smart and multi-functional textiles pave the way to multiple possibilities for developing high-tech garments responding to multiple needs in an elegant solution.

These materials enable to integrate different components and devices, in a comfortable and ergonomic way, providing a wide range of functionalities that can improve the safety, performance and wellbeing of the soldiers. Moreover, those textiles also offer new integration opportunities with platforms and systems.

Innovative multi-sensor space-based Earth observation capabilities towards persistent and reactive ISR

Code: 23167 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-SPACE-ISR | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

This topic aims at developing an affordable constellation of small satellites, including its ground segments able to handle various types of sensor payloads (e.g., optical video, low light, infrared, hyperspectral, RADAR, SIGINT) for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) applications. Such a constellation would complement high-end existing military capabilities while allowing responsive and smart tasking and data collection for near real-time tactical use.

This topic may also pave the way towards a collective and concerted approach regarding a future operational European Earth observation capability for ISR applications.

European defence medical countermeasures alliance

Code: 23095 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-FPA-MCBRN-MCM | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The framework partnership will support individual troop readiness and total force health protection by developing technologies and products to rapidly identify and respond to biological threats (including natural and genetically modified organism), chemical hazards and attacks, toxins as well as countermeasures regarding radio-nuclear and nuclear threats. Funded actions also focus on the research and development of vaccines and drugs and other antibiological substances (e.g., bacteriophages) against biological agents that may affect a sizable number of the military and/or be used on the battlefield. A subset of the funded actions specifically supports solutions to be used by personnel with minimal medical training, deployable laboratory capabilities even in the low-resource environments typical of many military operations.

Non-thematic development actions by SMEs

Code: 23092 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-LS-DA-SME-NT | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

This call encourages the driving role of innovative SMEs to turn technology and research results into defence products in a fast and cost-efficient way, possibly by adapting technologies from civil applications or addressing hybrid warfare. Successful SME beneficiaries may be offered Business Coaching, to reduce the time of bringing the results to the next phase of development.

Innovative technologies for adaptive camouflage

Code: 23090 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-LS-RA-DIS-AC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Camouflage is an important measure to protect soldiers and military platforms. The adaptation of the camouflage characteristics to the conditions, such as encountered sensors, environment and threat level, could bring this protection to a new level. Both the performance of the adaptive camouflage and material characteristics, including its passive properties (e.g., fire/electric shock protection and camouflage), will influence the impact of this technology on military capabilities. This topic complements ongoing projects, in particular following the PADR call on research in technology and products in the context of Force Protection and Soldier Systems.

Electromagnetic artillery demonstrator

Code: 23086 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-LS-RA-DIS-EAD | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The combination of electromagnetic artillery guns with smart ammunition can provide long-range precision strikes, as well as increased air defence and anti-surface warfare capabilities. Such combination is expected to improve the effectiveness and the protection of future European land and naval systems. Electromagnetic guns might provide a drastic superiority over conventional guns due to its hypersonic muzzle velocities, while guided projectiles will provide higher accuracy and precision. This
topic complements ongoing projects, in particular following the 2019 PADR call on emerging technologies for defence.

Non-thematic research actions targeting disruptive technologies for defence

Code: 23083 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-LS-RA-DIS-NT | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The specific challenge is to lay the foundations for radically new future technologies of any kind with unexpected impact that aims to bring radical technological superiority over potential adversaries. This topic also encourages the driving role of new actors in defence research and innovation, including excellent researchers, ambitious high-tech SMEs and visionary research centres of big companies, universities or research and technology organisations.

Cyber and information warfare toolbox

Code: 23081 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-DA-CYBER-CIWT | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The continuously and rapidly increasing flow of information in the information environment, facilitated through cyber capabilities, is a well-established fact. We are witnessing an increasing number of malicious actions targeting the information
environment. In the more and more digitalized battlespace, the Cyber and Information domains become decisive to anticipate and manage conflicts in the full spectrum of threat activities from sub-threshold interference to open warfare.

Support to the National Focal Point (NFP) network

Code: 23078 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-CSA-NFP-SNFPN | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 26/10/2022

The objectives of this call are to:

• enhance the functioning of the EDF-NFP network and contribute to the increase of the impact of the EDF in maximising the competitiveness of EU defence industry, its capacity to innovate and contribute to developing key technologies
  for the future;
• strengthen cross-border collaboration between EDF-NFPs and to improve coordination in EDF-NFP-related activities that reach more than one Member State or Associated Country;
• continuously improve the services of the individual EDF-NFPs with respect to all aspects of participation in the EDF and to all stakeholders concerned;
• foster matchmaking activities to facilitate the forming of consortia participating in the EDF calls
• enhance the cooperation of EDF-NFPs with the Enterprise Europe Network and other relevant networks

Unmanned ground and aerial systems for hidden threats detection – Organisation of a technological challenge

Code: 23075 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-LS-RA-CHALLENGE-DIGIT-HTDO | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

IED and landmine detection has been a research topic for many years. However, progress is hindered by the lack of standardised benchmarks. There is a need to rely on representative testing environments enabling an objective and comparable
evaluation of developed systems.

Furthermore, field tests cannot be repeated at will and are not perfectly reproducible, especially for detection systems that involve artificial intelligence. Online tests of software components, for which measurements are easily reproducible and which
enable short development cycles, should therefore also be organised. Since little data is readily available, data for online tests need to be collected during field tests organised previously during the challenge. This combination of field tests and online
tests is needed to steer fast progress toward operational goals.

Unmanned ground and aerial systems for hidden threats detection – Participation to a technological challenge

Code: 23072 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-LS-RA-CHALLENGE-DIGIT-HTDP | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and landmines are a significant threat to military personnel, civilians and equipment, and a major cause of casualties for European forces during operations. Countering these hidden threats is essential to protect
soldiers, reduce loss of equipment, secure critical logistic activities, improve mobility and freedom to act by increasing the security of operation areas, and more generally enhance operational efficiency. Furthermore, in a hybrid warfare context, these
threats are increasingly used against civilian populations. In particular, they have the potential to severely disrupt both military and civilian supply chains, damage critical infrastructures and affect strategic lines of communication.

Single European Sky interoperability

Code: 23070 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-C4ISR-AIRC2 | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

In order to cope with sustained air traffic growth and operations over Europe, the Single European Sky (SES) initiative has been running since 2004. It intends to improve the performance of Air Traffic Management (ATM) in terms of safety,
capacity, cost-efficiency and the environment. It hence paves the way for a European airspace that is used optimally, embraces emerging disruptive technologies, facilitates the integration of “new entrants” such as all types of drones, High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) to super- and hyper-sonic aircraft, trans-atmospheric and suborbital vehicles, and complies with emerging challenges. This modernisation of the civil aviation sector does not directly apply to military operations and training. However, civil and military aviation activities are closely interlinked, as they share the same airspace considered as a continuum. Therefore, SES implies a necessary coordinated modernisation of the different Air Command and Control (C2) systems, which are furthermore to collaborate at national and EU levels. Indeed, in this context, concomitant with a more hostile security environment, the timely sharing of correct and consistent information covering all phases of flight, between civil and military
parties is a must.

Packaging technologies for critical defence components

Code: 23066 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-MATCOMP-PACOMP | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Future defence systems that target information superiority, new communication capabilities, new battlefield operations, combat capabilities and inter-theatre air operations require electronic components with high performance and multiple
functionalities. Systems such as radiofrequency (RF) sensors for radars or electronic warfare systems, intelligent processing platforms or hardware-secured/cyber-secured modules need to be highly integrated and to fulfil specific military requirements. A particular challenge for defence forces is the digital control of the RF spectrum. For example, digital radar equipment will be driven mainly by components like analog-todigital converters (ADC), digital-to-analog converters (DAC), the RF frontend, which
will be mainly characterised by a transmit (high power amplifier – HPA) signal chain and a receiver (low noise amplifier – LNA) signal chain, and a robust switch, setting the mode of operation.

Diagnostics, treatment, transport and monitoring of highly contagious, injured and/or contaminated personnel

Code: 23064 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-MCBRN-HICP | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Research and development in detection, diagnostics, treatment, transport and monitoring of highly contagious, injured and/or contaminated personnel (HICP) provides for new life-saving techniques, concepts and strategies for soldiers on the
battlefield, including surgical robots, ultra-portable telemedicine devices and diagnostics sensors, Chemical Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) containment systems, ‘porter’ or load- carrying Unmanned Vehicles (UVs) and battlefield casualty extraction devices. Battlefield logistics are a challenge regardless of the mission. Adversaries, terrain, and the environment all serve to complicate the process of delivering supplies to the wounded and sick. The medical support to a force must be capable of maintaining the necessary quality and quantity of supply, treatment and evacuation activities during peace, crisis, and conflict. This requires having on hand or in reserve appropriate medical equipment, supplies, integrated medical evacuation capabilities and remote casualty care capacity, as well as having the ability to resupply and to replace medical personnel on a continuous basis.

Responsive space system

Code: 23062 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-SPACE-RSS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The general objective of this research topic is to pave the way towards a future European responsive space system able to place small satellites in various types of orbits within a short notice in order to address specific operational needs, including
tactical ones, and capability gaps stemming from shortage, failures and damages of existing space assets. This is particularly relevant in the field of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and satellite communication (SATCOM) where
space assets have to be continuously operational and available to monitor and react to risks and events.

Such a responsive space system will enhance the resilience and autonomy of the Member States, Norway and of the European Union in the fields of ‘access to space’ and ‘space capabilities for defence applications.

Underwater manned-unmanned teaming and swarms

Code: 23059 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-UWW-UTS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

This topic addresses research for future capabilities addressing moving subsurface threats using manned-unmanned teaming and swarm technologies, possibly including surface and air platforms and components, particularly in confined and shallow waters (CSW). This System-of-Systems (SoS) should enable enhanced operational efficiency and performance. The actions in this topic should address state-of-the-art, and beyond, swarm control solutions. This includes analysis of centralised, distributed, and hybrid control models. Swarm control may employ control scheme with a global or local approach and their optimised combination. The control-scheme should adopt to mission type changes as the operation evolves from one phase to another. Guidance and control strategies for the swarm are also to be considered, where inductive and swarm internal cognitive-like self-control needs to be analysed.

Sustainable components for underwater applications

Code: 23055 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-ENERENV-CUW | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Piezoelectric materials used for military applications, especially in underwater acoustics, are to a very large extent based on ceramics, more specifically, on lead titano-zirconate Pb1-xZrxTiO3 (PZT). Civilian and military users now face challenges with European regulations regarding lead and its derivatives identified in the Candidate List of the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation from 2012, with the risk of its inclusion in the Annex XIV (substances under authorization) in the coming years. This is a concern for sonar systems used in underwater applications utilising piezoelectric ceramics. In addition to the REACH regulations, other global regulations, such as the Restriction of Hazardous
Substances (RoHS) or Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), require the elimination of lead and its salts from consumer goods and industrial devices. These constraints and regulations stimulate the need for an increased technological and
industrial maturity of piezoelectric material alternatives to PZT. As an example, the recent update of the European RoHS directive has precluded the use of PZT ceramics from July 2021 for civil applications.

Future mid-size tactical cargo aircraft

Code: 23052 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-PROTMOB-FMTC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Tactical transport aircrafts are the workhorses of battlefields, fulfilling missions like airdrop delivery, parachutist drop, logistics, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), air to air refuelling, special missions under harsh and adverse conditions, which are critical for the success of military operations. Operations in hostile environments demand e.g., built in electronic warfare self-protection systems and set requirements on the platform performance/build up in order to be suitable for the task, and furthermore to
operate with limited ground infrastructure (e.g., unprepared runways).

Underwater observation, detection, acquisition and communications

Code: 23049 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-UWW-ODAC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Timely and robust detection and monitoring of moving underwater threats (such as submarines, swimmer delivery vehicles (SDV), combat divers, underwater unmanned vehicles (UUV)) in open sea and coastal waters is critical for maintaining sea control, for ensuring freedom to operate own forces, for A2AD operations, for harbour protection, for force protection, and for protection of critical national infrastructure.

Shared databases and integrated systems for image recognition

Code: 23047 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-DIGIT-DBIR | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Image recognition technologies become essential for defence applications. There is in particular an increasing need for forces to analyse their environment more efficiently in order to enhance decision-making, responsiveness and survivability while ensuring the observation function effectively. This need is reinforced by the emergence of new forms of threats such as hypersonic, swarming, miniaturised or stealth weapons,
which require increased speed, sensitivity or accuracy of the recognition systems. This need applies to manned and unmanned platforms as well as to wide-area or longlasting surveillance.

Advanced radar technologies

Code: 23045 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-SENS-ART | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Passive and active radio-frequency (RF) systems in general and surveillance radar systems in particular remain vital assets for supporting multi-domain operations: incl. air and air defence missions, as well as ground/maritime operations.

Covert sensing

Code: 23040 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-SENS-CSENS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

Due to the current geopolitical instability, European military forces will be obliged to participate in demanding military multi – domain operations like securing air superiority, land and sea control, border surveillance, traffic management, security of critical infrastructures, etc. Military information superiority is key to these operations, because they are relying on the best possible battlefield awareness, which is created by the exploitation of data acquired by modern sensors, integrated both in a range of platform and in a range of concepts of use enabled by the digital transformation of the battlefield.

Adapting cyber situational awareness for evolving computing environments

Code: 23036 | Identifier Code: EDF-2022-RA-CYBER-CSACE | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 21/06/2022 | End submission calls: 24/11/2022

The overall goal is to explore novel concepts and operational opportunities for providing to the Commander essential intelligence about the adversary, their capabilities and objectives while operating in and through cyberspace. CTI enhanced with a Semantic Threat Enrichment module able to analyse both data coming from public repositories and the dark web to generate Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) and Indicators of Attacks (IoAs) will support Cyberspace Operations.

European protected waveform and accompanying technologies for resilient satellite communications against jamming

Code: 13484 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-SPACE-D-EPW | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic aims at bridging a shared and recognised gap in terms of European interoperable protected waveform for satellite communications in military applications, including in joint operations. The scope also addresses complementary ancillary technologies to provide an integrated multi-layered security and resilience approach for military satellite networks. These developments may have positive externalities on GovSatCom initiative.

Infrared detectors

Code: 13482 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-SENS-R-IRD | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

The proposals under this topic of the Call, must address the development of the next generation of ROICs for Infrared detectors, including the EU supply chain. That next generation of ROIC will be based on an advanced Silicon technology (compatible with a 3D architecture) that can be used in various future cooled and uncooled IR detector architectures.

Advanced radar technologies

Code: 13476 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-SENS-R-RADAR | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

Proposals should address the development of new concepts, technological blocks, sub-systems and/or systems in in order to realize a new class of sensors with remarkable sustainable characteristics in all domains (sea, land and air). These aimed achievements should be applicable in different kinds of active or passive radar systems (unification between different kinds of platforms desirable) and need to be able to support future military operations and to cope with new generation of unpredictable and unimaginable threats.

Space and ground-based NAVWAR surveillance

Code: 13473 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-SPACE-D-SGNS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

The proposals must aim at developing a comprehensive EU NAVWAR capability, relying on space-based and ground-based surveillance, and complementing current European efforts to strengthen the future Galileo PRS service resilience for military applications and the development of the user segment used by the forces of the EU Member States. To this end, the proposals must address the NAVWAR overall system, including a modular NAVWAR information-management system, networked with NAVWAR subsystems and NAVWAR PRS sensors. The objective is to achieve overall global capability dealing simultaneously with resilience, surveillance, and offensive measures.

Development of full-size demonstrators for soldier systems

Code: 13471 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-PROTMOB-D-SS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

Soldier Systems support force protection, increase operational effectiveness, reliability and endurance of individual soldiers and formations. They comprise the gender-neutral equipment of individual military personnel to be able to operate with a sufficient level of protection in any operational environment. Soldier Systems are a primary force multiplier. The development and integration of cutting-edge technology is key for forces. 

Development of a digital system for the secure and quick exchange of information related to military mobility

Code: 13467 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-PROTMOB-D-DMM | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

Timely and accurate logistic information and sharing is required for the efficient management and coordination of multinational logistic networks and hubs. Information management for multinational logistics, including for Military Mobility related information, contributes to enhanced efficiency and effectiveness, notably to the reduction of overall costs and environmental footprint, flexibility of forces, improved interoperability and fair burden sharing between Member States or conservation of scarce local resources.

Quantum technologies for defence

Code: 13463 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-DIS-RDIS-QSENS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

Quantum sciences have the potential to be a disruptive technology for a wide range of application domains including defence. At the core of this “second quantum revolution” is information: its acquisition (quantum sensors, quantum imaging), its transmission (quantum communications) or its processing (quantum computation).
In the long term, quantum communications or digital superiority by quantum computing are two examples of how quantum technologies can benefit defence applications.
In a shorter-term, quantum sensors are expected to play a major role in offering unprecedented advantages in a defence context.

Next generation electrical energy storage for military forward operation bases

Code: 13381 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-ENERENV-D-NGES | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Energy efficiency and energy management” (EDF-2021-ENERENV-D).

This topic aims at developing new alternative technologies for deployable energy storage systems that are reliable, stable, compact, lightweight, high power (SWaP), mobile, safer, smart managed, characterized by the lack of “memory effect” and with a high operating time (number of discharge / charge cycles).

Energy independent and efficient systems for military camps

Code: 13378 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-ENERENV-D-EEMC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Energy efficiency and energy management” (EDF-2021-ENERENV-D).

This topic aims at developing concepts, processes and products for autonomous military camp that integrates a wide energy source approach, with several different technological bricks (fuel cells, batteries, synthetic fuels small refinery, hybrid electric generator, deployable solar panel, etc.) with a focus on Energy Security, reducing heat waste and efficiency.

High-altitude platform systems

Code: 13375 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-C4ISR-D-HAPS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”ISR and advanced communications” (EDF-2021-C4ISR-D).

The proposals must aim to validate HAPS solutions, developing at least two different flight demonstrators of different kinds to test properly the operational and technical challenges of the different HAPS platform types, and as such making a substantial contribution to European Defence and Security applications.

Enhanced pilot environment for air combat

Code: 13371 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-AIR-D-EPE | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Avionics and advanced air combat” (EDF-2021-AIR-D).

The improvement in the performance of effectors and platforms and the networking of more and more various systems in an increasingly collaborative combat mode result in a greater diversity and a greater amount of information to deal with, while requiring an even higher pilot’s responsiveness. The objective is therefore to improve the gender-neutral cockpit environment and to provide the pilot of next generation air combat systems with enhanced tools and avionics in order to keep the pilot efficiently focused on the mission to be carried out, e.g. through AI based pilot support, integrated sensor management, path finding technology or manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) enhanced features.

Robust defence multi-dimensional communications

Code: 13367 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-C4ISR-D-COMS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”ISR and advanced communications” (EDF-2021-C4ISR-D).

This topic addresses design and development activities in that respect, using commercial and military secure hardware, software and architecture, including LTE 5G and beyond, digital transceivers, considering multi-functional digital antenna systems, all with a SWAP-C (Size, Weight, Power and Cost) approach.
The specific challenge of this topic is to assess identified use cases, whereby 5G will bring improved operational capacities and build corresponding interoperable 5G solutions matching the military constraints in terms of robustness, resilience, security, sovereignty and manageability, and at the same time ensuring efficient interoperability of the 5G solutions with military networking technologies.

Non-line-of-sight optical sensors applications

Code: 13364 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-DIS-RDIS-NLOS | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic was opened in the framework of the call “Research on naughty technologies for defense applications” (EDF-2021-DIS-RDIS).

This theme aims to stimulate the development of new quantum detection devices, laser technologies and computational algorithms, such as geometric reconstruction and artificial intelligence, as to enable discovery in visual sense and state awareness. Thus, reconstruction and artificial intelligence could be explored in order to expand the range of perception of the forces and thus increase their survival and supremacy on the battlefield.
NLOS applications can extend the perception range of optical sensors to areas where direct projection is hidden while maintaining high spatial optical resolution.

Over-the-horizon radars applications

Code: 13362 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-DIS-RDIS-OTHR | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Research for disruptive technologies for defence applications” (EDF-2021-DIS-RDIS).

This topic addresses the technologies for an EU OTH radar network concept offering deep collaborative strategic surveillance and data sharing. In this regard, both HF Surface- and Sky- Wave radar technologies, possibly in combination with higher frequency sensors, should be explored regarding their respective advantages in terms of covered area in long ranges and gap filler.

New materials and technologies for additive manufactured defence applications

Code: 13354 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-DIS-RDIS-AMD | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Research for disruptive technologies for defence applications” (EDF-2021-DIS-RDIS).

Research activities under this topic could include but are not limited to identification and analysis of material properties, such as (super)alloys or concrete composites, full functional 3D printed electrified structures, new technologies to further improve military propulsion, AM parts or structures for an improved protection of soldiers and equipment, specialized AM-materials for function and structure in next-gen ammunition and missiles or AM technologies for ballistic functional structures as well as new approaches to lightweight applications.

European interoperability standard for collaborative air combat

Code: 13351 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-AIR-D-CAC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Avionics and advanced air combat” (EDF-2021-AIR-D).

European air forces are built on a wide variety of heterogeneous systems, thus leading to the challenge of interoperability at the functional, software and hardware levels. The objective is to develop jointly a European perspective enabling the member states to address with a middle to long-term perspective collaborative air warfare, through a common European standard that must be compliant with ongoing activities in Europe in that respect and with NATO too.

Future modular ground vehicles and enabling technologies, including green technologies

Code: 13349 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-GROUND-D-FMGV | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Fleet upgrade and close combat” (EDF-2021-GROUND-D).

The evolving operational environment requires the development of next generation and the modernisation of current armoured platforms with improved robustness, agility, versatility and interoperability. Moreover, future land vehicles will require the ability to operate in adverse conditions, in digitised battlefield and network centric environments, and to obtain scalable effects, while ensuring efficient maintainability and support, high level of operational readiness and optimized life cycle cost. This topic addresses mainly technologies enhancing the mobility performance of ground platforms, making them more capable, modular and energy-efficient.

Unmanned ground vehicle technologies

Code: 13347 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-GROUND-D-UGVT | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Fleet upgrade and close combat” (EDF-2021-GROUND-D).
There are significant cooperation opportunities in the Union regarding unmanned systems, which could be based on a shared operational concept and the resulting harmonisation of requirements. Moreover, the CDP analysis identifies the need to deploy unmanned systems to reduce the danger to human personnel and manned platforms, as well as to increase robustness, sustainability and resilience of ground systems. A comprehensive set of unmanned systems should contribute to the capability of land manoeuvre in the joint operational environment to gain positional advantage in respect to the adversary.
Purely unmanned tracked vehicles as funded under EDIDP will be not considered under this topic.

BLOS collaborative close combat architecture

Code: 13336 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-GROUND-D-3CA | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Fleet upgrade and close combat” (EDF-2021-GROUND-D).

The availability of mobile precision systems able to provide the necessary high degree of accuracy and efficiency, avoiding widespread collateral damage, and reducing exposure of friendly forces is a priority for Member States’ armed forces. In the context of this topic some requirements are becoming increasingly important, e.g. to provide the land and naval combat units with the ability to defeat at medium and long ranges, and with a very high degree of accuracy and reliability. In order to meet these requirements, research activities on a Beyond Line Of Sight (BLOS) collaborative close combat architecture are required.

Alternative propulsion and energy systems for next generation air combat systems

Code: 13323 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-ENERENV-D-PES | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Energy efficiency and energy management” (EDF-2021-ENERENV-D).

This topic aim at efficient sub and supersonic enhanced propulsion systems combined with a more efficient on-board energy management system coming mainly from the conversion of fuel energy by the engine into propulsion, power, compressed air, etc. within an optimized thrust and power integrated system, which are key for next generation air combat systems, and which are likely to require more propulsive and non-propulsive energies.

Advanced RF components

Code: 13302 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-MATCOMP-R-RF | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Advanced materials and structures, and critical electronics” (EDF-2021-MATCOMP-R).

This calls aims at strengthening the supply chain for leading-edge radio-frequency defence applications. It builds on a rich legacy of R&D projects performed over the last decades in national, EDA and EU activities.
There are two key aspects for the building of a GaN supply chain for defence applications in Europe, both of which have been developed in parallel through the aforementioned projects. Following those two work strands, proposals should address firstly, the need to secure supply of epitaxial wafers with GaN-HEMT structures and the development of an improved GaN manufacturing process.

Materials and structures for enhanced protection in hostile environments

Code: 13297 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-MATCOMP-R-PHE | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Advanced materials and structures, and critical electronics” (EDF-2021-MATCOMP-R).

This topic aims to improve the performance of protective materials against ballistic and novel threats in different military applications. The funded project should address aspects related to characterization and testing of new and aged materials and prepare a platform to test the outcome of current and future projects (funded by national, EDA Cat. B, PADR, EDF but also other R&D programmes) in terms of performance and improved functionality.

Development of innovative and future-oriented defence solutions

Code: 13292 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-OPEN-D-SME | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Open call dedicated to SMEs for development of innovative and future-oriented defence solutions” (EDF-2021-OPEN-D).

The proposals must address innovative defence products, solutions and technologies, including those that can improve readiness, deployability and sustainability of EU forces in all spectrum of tasks and missions, for example in terms of operations, equipment, basing, energy solutions, new surveillance systems.

Ship Structural Health Monitoring

Code: 13286 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-NAVAL-R-SSHM | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call  ”Smart ships” (EDF-2021-NAVAL-R).

The objective is rerlated with the researching on structural health monitoring techniques and their integration in an expert system specific for naval vessels.
The proposals must aim to obtain improved naval vessels’ operational capability through research on advancing the utilization of data from the state of the art, and/or innovatively improve the hull ship structural health monitoring systems, using modern data science tools, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), digital twin models or other.

Digital ship and ship digital architecture

Code: 13282 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-NAVAL-R-DSSDA | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call  ”Smart ships” (EDF-2021-NAVAL-R).

The proposals must aim at obtaining higher degrees of automation in ship and combat systems using big data analysis, data fusion, Artificial Intelligence (AI), including machine learning and multi-agent technology and other technologies to obtain higher speed in the OODA loop, including digital twinning. This objective will be achieved through the definition of a data-centric digital architecture and shared data/interface standards, allowing for new services.

Improved warheads

Code: 13271 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-GROUND-R-IW | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call Precision Strike Capabilities (EDF-2021-GROUND-R).

Defeating improved protection systems of main combat platforms, hardened targets and reinforced (critical) infrastructures remains a focal challenge for military operations. Enhanced effects on targets, like blast, perforation, penetration, shock, bubble effects or electromagnetic pulse, are required to defeat such advanced protection systems. In this way, the development of new types of warheads with higher performance is required. Activities should cover the research on an enhanced penetration performance.

Next generation rotorcraft technologies

Code: 13267 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-AIR-R-NGRT | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Next generation vertical take-off and landing systems” (EDF-2021-AIR-R).
The scope of this topic concerns research on future technologies and the future operating environment (FOE) and future operating concepts (FOC) of military vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) systems.

Improving cyber defence and incident management with artificial intelligence

Code: 13265 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-CYBER-R-CDAI | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic that has opened under the call ”Cyber threat intelligence and improved cyber operational capabilities” (EDF-2021-CYBER-R).

Addressing the challenges identified under the topic will require inter- and multidisciplinary approaches, where teams conduct work of both a technical and a non-technical nature. Analysis of technical, tactical, operational, strategic and political considerations are required.

Frugal learning for rapid adaptation of AI systems

Code: 13258 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-DIGIT-R-FL | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Artificial intelligence” (EDF-2021-DIGIT-R).

 The aim of this topic is to tackle the problem of robustness and frugality in military AI software components to facilitate the development of new systems and their adaptation to the evolution of their environment, including from user supervision, for a reasonable cost, with minimal intervention from expert developers, and without regression. State-of-the-art research on transfer learning, zero- or few-shot learning, active learning, domain adaptation, hybrid AI and other relevant topics should be leveraged to propose new methods to improve AI-based methods, while preserving high performance. The proposals must cover activities that aim to create, underpin and improve knowledge, products and technologies, including disruptive technologies for defence, which can achieve significant effects in the area of defence.

Military multi-domain operations cloud

Code: 13255 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-DIGIT-D-MDOC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Cloud technologies” (EDF-2021-DIGIT-D).

 Proposals under this topic should address the development of a multi-domain cloud architecture for defence and an associated technological demonstrator, providing a common shared information space and federated services enabling multi-domain operations. The ambition is to combine data of existing and future systems through a federated network, shared cloud interfaces and implementation of the associated shared services. The ambition is also to make the data securely available for re-use in the promising field of AI.

Improved efficiency of cyber trainings and exercises

Code: 13252 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-CYBER-D-IECTE | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

The topic has opened under the call is ”Improved capacity for cyber training and exercises” (EDF-2021-CYBER-D).

 The objective of this topic is to create a toolset that allows significantly increased efficiency in the cyber trainings and exercises process while also enhancing cyber ranges interoperability and cost-efficiency, taking into account challenges described in the Work Programme under the specific topic (the challenges may also be found in the Funding & Tenders portal page for the specific topic).

Research on innovative and future-oriented defence solutions

Code: 13247 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-OPEN-R-SME | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Open call focused on SMEs for research on innovative and future-oriented defence solutions” (EDF-2021-OPEN-R).

 The proposals must address innovative defence technologies and solutions, including those that can improve readiness, deployability and sustainability of EU forces in all spectrum of tasks and missions, for example in terms of operations, equipment, basing, energy solutions, new surveillance systems. The proposals could address any subject of interest for defence.

Modular and multirole patrol corvette

Code: 13241 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-NAVAL-D-MMPC | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Multirole and modular offshore patrol vessel” (EDF-2021-NAVAL-D).

 The proposals must aim to:

• define a shared and common set of rules, standards and interfaces applicable to naval architecture and associated systems to improve the industrial cooperation and integration of the European naval companies and Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) and promote common European supply chains;
• create standardised industrial processes and methodologies and increase Member State’s joint capability to develop future warships in a reduced amount of time and at most optimised cost, and so contribute to the competitiveness of the European defence industry;
• increase availability through integration of modularity and flexibility in the design of military vessels, and ultimately to generate a new 2500t-3500t class modular vessel able to increase current capabilities of the navies mainly in terms of MSA, Surface Superiority and Power Projection and also carry out a large spectrum of maritime operations ranging from peacetime governmental activities to wartime operations.

Endo-atmospheric interceptor – concept phase

Code: 13234 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-AIRDEF-D-EATMI | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Protection against high velocity aerial threats” (EDF-2021-AIRDEF-D).

 This topic is an opportunity for Europe to federate efforts under a European design authority to master critical technologies, materials, components and expertise key to develop a state-of-the-art endo-atmospheric interceptor. The concept exploration study of the interceptor will be the cornerstone for possible future European ground and sea-based missile defence systems, able to complement significantly and improve the robustness of NATO BMD and TBMD.

Development of defence medical countermeasures

Code: 13228 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-MCBRN-D-MCM | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Defence medical countermeasures” (EDF-2021-MCBRN-D).

 Proposals should focus on innovation and development of medical countermeasures (MCMs) against Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) threats as well as their integration into armed forces. Proposals may also provide for analysis of the relevance and feasibility of novel MCMs and related technology, mapping of CBRN MCM capacities across EU, as well as options for ensuring EU’s access and availability of MCMs. MCMs may include any medicines or medical devices that are aimed at combating CBRN threats. This extends both to countermeasures that prevent or treat the threat.

Research on disruptive technologies for defence

Code: 13206 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-OPEN-RDIS-Open | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Open call addressing disruptive technologies for defence” (EDF-2021-OPEN-RDIS).

 The specific challenge, under the present topic, is to lay the foundations for radically new future technologies of any kind with unexpected impact that aims to bring radical technological superiority over potential adversaries. This topic also encourages the driving role of new actors in defence research and innovation, including excellent researchers, ambitious high-tech SMEs and visionary research centres of big companies, universities or research and technology organisations

Detection, identification and monitoring (DIM) of CBRN threats

Code: 13201 | Identifier Code: EDF-2021-MCBRN-R-CBRNDIM | Programme name: European Defence Fund (EDF) | Start submission calls: 09/09/2021 | End submission calls: 09/12/2021

This topic has opened under the call ”Capabilities for CBRN risk assessment, detection, early warning and surveillance” (EDF-2021-MCBRN-R).

 Proposals must cover the generation of knowledge, methods and technologies leading to improved capacities for sampling, detection, identification, characterisation, and monitoring of Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) threats and data management. Proposals may also cover the dynamic mapping of threats, vulnerabilities and capacities to respond at geographical levels as well as mapping of strategic CBRN detection technologies and related production capacities in the Union.
Considering maturity and current capabilities, the priority order is: prio 1: B-DIM; prio 2: C-DIM and prio 3 R-DIM.