For the first time, Ukrainian defence industries will also be able to participate in EDF projects. This cooperation is part of a broader effort led by the EU Defence Innovation Office in Kyiv to enhance ties between Ukrainian and European defence sectors, strengthening shared security and innovation goals.
The EDF investments align with the Commission’s ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030, which aims to reinforce pan-European defence capabilities. They also complement the Joint White Paper on European Defence Readiness 2030, which outlines new strategies for defence and identifies critical investment needs.
“With these investments, we are not only enhancing the European defence industry but also fostering greater integration with Ukrainian defence capabilities,” European Commission said in a press release. The strengthened partnership is seen as an essential step in reinforcing Europe’s strategic defence readiness.
The EDF, with a budget of €7.3 billion for the period 2021-2027, is the EU’s main instrument for supporting defence research and development. It promotes collaboration between companies and research institutions across the EU and Norway, while also fostering innovation through initiatives such as the EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS).
This year, €45 million has been earmarked for disruptive technologies, which aim to significantly change existing defence solutions. Among the selected projects is METASTEALTH, focusing on next-generation stealth materials, and Ukraine’s Small UAS, which is working on advanced AI-driven aerial systems.
Another major project, ENGRTII, brings together over 45 industrial players and research organisations to develop the next-generation European rotorcraft by 2030. Additionally, the EUROSWEEP project is set to establish a common autonomous European minesweeping system.
The EDF also supports the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), aiming to boost the development of critical technologies. Projects meeting quality standards have been awarded a STEP Seal, attracting further funding. The full list of projects will be available on the STEP Portal in the coming weeks.
Following the selection of successful proposals, the Commission will move towards finalising grant agreements with the chosen consortia. The agreements are expected to be signed by the end of the year, setting the stage for projects that will shape Europe’s defence landscape.
The EDF supports the entire R&D cycle, focusing on cutting-edge, interoperable defence technologies. It encourages cross-border collaboration, particularly involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which account for 38% of all participating entities in the selected projects. In total, €369 million will support 39 research projects, while €539 million will be dedicated to 23 capability development projects.
Source: European Commission.
