The opening competition will focus on deploying new products to counter unmanned aerial systems, reinforce air defence and secure frontline communications. NCIA will award innovation contracts worth EUR 10 million during this initial round, with funding allocated equally by NATO and Ukraine.
Companies wishing to take part may register their interest through the steps set out in the Notice of Procurement Opportunity before submitting joint bids in February 2026. NATO and Ukraine plan to scale the programme’s funding up to EUR 50 million, with NATO contributing through its Comprehensive Assistance Package for Ukraine and Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation matching that amount.
Winners of the first competition will be announced in spring 2026 at the second NATO Ukraine Defence Innovators Forum. Further phases of the programme will follow in 2026, with future UNITE – Brave NATO activity to concentrate on capability areas including counter unmanned aerial systems, SIGINT systems, resilient navigation in contested electromagnetic environments and unmanned ground systems.
