Technologies for counter-battery capabilities

This opportunity supports research and innovation in the defense sector by funding the design, development, and testing of advanced technologies and systems. It focuses on areas such as autonomous triage and evacuation, smart information-sharing systems, propulsion systems for next-generation rotorcrafts, and other critical defense priorities. Projects should strengthen the EU’s Defense Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) by promoting innovation and strategic autonomy. Cross-border cooperation is encouraged, especially involving small and mid-sized companies. All activities must be carried out in eligible European countries or associated territories.

• Conduct research on innovative and adapted technologies for counter-battery capabilities, including detection, location, identification, and communication
• Explore passive and active sensor solutions (acoustic, seismic, optical, radar, ESM) and suitable carrier platforms (UxVs, balloons, vehicles, stationary)
• Investigate novel sensor deployment mechanisms with a focus on cost-effective, high-performance solutions
• Eligible activities include knowledge generation, interoperability enhancement, feasibility studies, and design development
• Target improved defence effectiveness across tactical and operational depths through integrated technological advancements

Examples:

• A multinational team develops a new autonomous drone system for battlefield medical evacuation, involving SMEs from three EU countries.
• A consortium creates an advanced secure communication network for defense forces, with partners from different eligible countries.
• Several companies collaborate to design and test an innovative propulsion system for next-generation helicopters, ensuring all work is performed within eligible territories.

• Personnel costs for employees and contracted individuals directly working on the project
• Costs for SME owners or self-employed individuals not receiving a salary (using unit costs)
• Subcontracting costs, if the work is performed in eligible countries
• Travel and subsistence expenses, reimbursed at actual cost
• Depreciation costs for equipment used in the project
• Costs for goods, works, and services directly related to the project
• Indirect costs, calculated as a flat rate of 25% of eligible direct costs (excluding certain categories)
• Non-deductible or non-refundable VAT (except for public bodies acting as public authorities)

Restrictions: VAT paid by public bodies acting as public authorities is not eligible. Financial support to third parties and PCP procurement costs are not allowed.

• Total budget of the grant: 20,000,000 €
• Maximum per project: 20,000,000€
• Minimum per project: 10,000,000€
• Maximum project duration: 48 months 

• Applicants must be legal entities, either public or private bodies.
• Applicants must be established and have their executive management in eligible countries (EU Member States, overseas territories, or listed EEA countries).
• Applicants must not be controlled by non-associated third countries or entities, unless approved guarantees are provided.
• Consortium must include at least three independent applicants from three different eligible countries.
• Natural persons are not eligible, except for self-employed individuals where the company has no separate legal personality.
• International organizations are eligible only if all members are from eligible countries and management is based in an eligible country.