AI-based tactical situational awareness using swarms of small robots and drones – participation in a technological challenge

 

SCOPE & EXPECTED OUTCOMES :

 

This call aims to support research and innovation projects developing advanced digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and signal processing capabilities for defence applications, through a challenge-based approach.

The call focuses on strengthening Europe’s ability to process, analyse and exploit large volumes of data in complex operational environments.

Projects are expected to tackle clearly defined defence challenges related to digital technologies, including:

• AI-based data analysis and decision support,
• advanced signal processing (e.g. radar, communications, electronic warfare),
• real-time data fusion from multiple sources,
• autonomous or semi-autonomous systems,
• cyber-secure and resilient digital infrastructures.

A key feature of this call is its challenge-driven structure: proposals must directly address predefined technological problems and demonstrate how their solutions can meet operational defence needs.

Funded projects should develop innovative technological building blocks, algorithms or system-level solutions, with a focus on:

1. Advanced AI and data processing capabilities
2. Signal processing and sensing technologies
3. Integration into defence systems
4. Robustness, security and trustworthiness

Projects are expected to deliver validated prototypes, algorithms, software components or demonstrators, showing clear potential for operational use in defence.

The overall goal is to enhance Europe’s technological sovereignty in digital and AI-based defence capabilities, while supporting the development of next-generation defence systems.

 

At least 3 independent legal entities from 3 different EU Member States or EDF-Associated Countries.

Consortia should include:

• defence industry companies (large groups, SMEs, mid-caps),
• technology providers specialising in AI, data processing or signal processing,
• research organisations and universities.