Advanced underwater networks

The main goal of this opportunity is to develop advanced Unmanned Underwater Super Systems (UUSS) and networks to support future manned-unmanned teaming and swarm missions. The focus is on overcoming current limitations in underwater vehicles, such as performance issues and lack of interoperability, by creating systems based on open, non-proprietary standards. Projects should demonstrate these solutions in real operational seawater environments. This opportunity targets organizations based in EU Member States and EDF Associated Countries, aiming to enhance maritime security and defence capabilities in these regions.

• Projects must focus on generating knowledge, increasing interoperability and resilience, or conducting feasibility studies.
• Activities should include designing defence products or technologies, system prototyping, and testing.
• Projects must include mandatory tasks such as integrating knowledge, conducting studies, defining certification plans, and designing innovative, interoperable systems.
• Optional activities may include testing and validation in operational environments, and system or subsystem certification.
• Proposals must follow the page limits, layout, and use the application form provided in the Submission System.
• Applicants must be from eligible countries (EU Member States and EDF Associated Countries) and show financial and operational capacity.

Examples:

• Developing a prototype underwater drone with interoperable communication systems for joint EU naval operations.
• Conducting a feasibility study and conceptual design for a swarm of autonomous underwater vehicles that can be retrofitted onto existing fleets.
• Testing and certifying a new sensor module for underwater vehicles in a simulated operational maritime environment.

• Costs for generating new knowledge and research activities
• Expenses related to increasing system interoperability and resilience
• Feasibility study costs
• Design expenses for defence products or technologies
• System prototyping costs
• Testing activities
• Qualification processes (including non-destructive or destructive testing)
• Certification costs for systems and subsystems
• Development of technologies or assets to improve lifecycle efficiency

Restrictions: Detailed cost eligibility, such as indirect costs or equipment depreciation, should be checked in the official call documents.

Budget for this grant: 25,000,000€

• Applicants must be based in an EU Member State or an EDF Associated Country.
• Projects must address the specific focus areas outlined in the opportunity.
• Applications must follow the official page limits and layout requirements.
• Proposals must use the provided application form in the Submission System.
• Applicants must demonstrate adequate financial capacity.
• Applicants must demonstrate operational capacity to carry out the project.
• Applicants must comply with any exclusion criteria described in the call document.
• Eligibility may depend on forming networks or partnerships, as outlined in the call document.