6G NTN-TN Unification/Integration

The main goal of this opportunity is to develop technologies and protocols that allow seamless integration between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. The focus is on removing the barriers between satellite and ground-based communication, enabling smooth roaming and supporting new business models. Key areas include dynamic spectrum access, multi-tenancy, unified control systems, and robust solutions for critical use cases like public safety and direct-to-device communication. Projects should address advanced network management and be adaptable for high-demand scenarios. This grant is open to entities in Member States, Associated Countries, OECD, and Mercosur countries.

• Projects must involve legal entities from eligible countries (Member States, Associated, OECD, or Mercosur countries).
• Entities considered high-risk suppliers or controlled by non-eligible countries are not allowed, unless safeguards are provided.
• Public bodies, research organizations, and universities must provide a gender equality plan, and address gender aspects in their research where relevant.
• Entities from Russia, Belarus, or non-government-controlled areas of Ukraine cannot participate.
• Projects must align with the specific objectives and scope of the relevant Work Programme stream.

Examples:

• A consortium of universities and tech companies from Spain, Brazil, and Germany developing unified network protocols for seamless TN-NTN integration.
• A research project led by a French public research institute focusing on dynamic spectrum access for public safety communications, including a gender equality plan.
• An innovation partnership between an Italian telecom operator and an Argentinian satellite provider to enable end-to-end resource slicing, ensuring all partners meet eligibility and security requirements.

• Personnel costs
• Subcontracting
• Travel and subsistence
• Equipment (depreciation or rental)
• Consumables and materials
• Dissemination and communication
• Access to research infrastructure
• IPR and certification
• Audit costs
• Indirect costs (25% flat rate)
• Internally invoiced services

• Budget for this Call: 8,000,000€ 
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Budget per grant: 8,000,000€

• Applicants must be legal entities established in Member States, Associated Countries, OECD, or Mercosur countries.
• Entities from Russia, Belarus, or non-government-controlled territories of Ukraine are not eligible.
• Entities considered high-risk suppliers or controlled by non-eligible countries must provide guarantees to ensure no negative impact on the Union's strategic interests.
• Public bodies, research organizations, and higher education establishments must have a gender equality plan.
• National security clearance may be required for involved personnel, where appropriate.
• Intellectual property and project results must remain within eligible countries and not be controlled by non-eligible entities.
• Consortium or partnership may be required depending on the project scope.