Fast-track Extending U-space eco-system

The main goal of this opportunity is to advance the development and integration of U-space capabilities, focusing on improving communication, navigation, and surveillance systems for drones and other aerial vehicles. It seeks to enhance safety, situational awareness, and emergency management by supporting new technologies such as detect-and-avoid and collision avoidance systems. The opportunity also aims to integrate U-space services for both crewed and uncrewed aircraft, including their use beyond designated U-space airspace. Projects can address commercial aviation, general aviation, and drone operations. Eligible geographic regions include countries specified in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes, with some additional provisions for certain non-EU countries.

• Maintain and update SESAR architecture framework

• Monitor architecture consistency across projects

• Track progress on key Master Plan priorities

• Support maturity checks and deployment reporting

• Promote SESAR Solution uptake and investment

• Run impact assessments and simulations

• Coordinate with standardisation/regulation bodies

• Provide strategic support (e.g. master plan updates, ICAO alignment)

Examples:

• A project developing advanced detect-and-avoid systems for drones operating in mixed airspace.
• A collaborative initiative to integrate mobile network-based surveillance for commercial and general aviation aircraft.
• A research project focused on enhancing emergency management tools for U-space operations.

• Personnel costs related to project activities
• Equipment and materials necessary for research and development
• Travel and accommodation for project staff
• Subcontracting of specialized services
• Costs for testing and demonstration activities
• Software and digital tools required for project implementation
• Dissemination and communication of results
• Training and workshop organization
• Project management and coordination

Restrictions: Funding is provided as a lump sum, and only 70% of eligible expenses will be covered. All costs must directly relate to the project objectives.

• Co-financing rate: 70%
• Budget for this Call: 20,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Maximum value per project: 5,000,000€
• Minimum value per project: 2,000,000€

• Applicants must be from eligible countries listed in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.
• Specific provisions apply for applicants from non-EU/non-Associated Countries.
• Proposals must comply with all format and page limit requirements.
• Applications must be submitted through the designated Submission System.
• Applicants must agree to share relevant results royalty-free with other projects funded under the same call.
• Applicants must incorporate dissemination obligations into their proposals and grant agreements.