Non-thematic research actions by SMEs and research organisations

The main goal of this opportunity is to stimulate the leadership of innovative SMEs and research organizations in advancing defence research and technology. It aims to foster the development of innovative and cost-effective solutions for defence applications, including the introduction of groundbreaking or novel concepts and the adaptation of civil technologies to defence needs. The focus areas include improving the readiness, deployability, reliability, safety, and sustainability of defence forces. The opportunity also seeks to enhance innovation capacity across Europe, facilitate SME entry into defence markets and supply chains, and strengthen the research and technology ecosystems within EU Member States and EDF Associated Countries.

• Projects must address innovative technologies or solutions for defence.
• They should aim to improve readiness, deployability, reliability, safety, or sustainability of defence forces.
• Eligible activities include generating or integrating knowledge, conducting feasibility studies, and designing defence products or technologies.
• Proposals must include a clear work breakdown structure and link tasks to eligible activities.
• Each work package must have clear criteria for completion.

Examples:

• Developing a new sensor system to improve the deployability and safety of military units.
• Adapting a civilian logistics software for use in defence supply chains.
• Conducting a feasibility study for lightweight, sustainable materials in defence vehicle design.

• Activities to generate new defence-related knowledge
• Integration of existing knowledge for defence applications
• Feasibility studies for defence technologies or products
• Design of defence products or technologies
• Definition of technical specifications for defence solutions
• Depreciation costs for equipment used in the project
• Total price of equipment if used solely for prototyping

Restrictions: System prototyping, testing, qualification, certification, and activities aimed at increasing efficiency across the life cycle of defence products are not eligible.

Budget for this call: 34,000,000€

• Applicants must be SMEs or research organizations.
• Applicants must be based in EU Member States or EDF Associated Countries.
• Applicants must demonstrate financial and operational capacity to carry out the project.
• Applicants must meet all other conditions specified in the call document.
• Applicants must not be subject to exclusion criteria outlined in the call.
• Specific eligibility conditions regarding partnerships or networks may apply, as detailed in the call document.

For precise requirements, applicants should consult the full call document.