CFAs: Modernising Defence Forces with Innovative Technologies

The proposals must target innovative defence products, solutions, and technologies, including operations, equipment, infrastructure, energy solutions, surveillance systems, and digital solutions. They should address disruptive knowledge, products, and technologies in any area of defence interest from TRL 4 and above. This call also encourages adapting civil technologies for defence applications, driving fast and cost-efficient transformation of technology and research results into operational defence products, and contributing to STEP objectives in the target investment areas.

The management mode for this action is implemented in indirect management by the European Defence Agency, with funding provided through a Contribution Agreement. Implementation of lump sum grants will be decided by the Commission following the competitive call. The indicative budget for this topic is EUR 30,000,000, with EUR 1,050,000 allocated for remuneration of the entrusted entity

Proposals should encompass any activity eligible for a development action, including design, system prototyping, testing, qualification, certification, and increasing efficiency. Applicants must be legal entities, public or private, established in eligible countries, and have their executive management in those countries. Control by non-associated third countries is restricted unless guarantees are provided and approved. Only small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as defined by EU Recommendation are eligible.

This call aims to complement existing R&D efforts, especially those targeting civil applications, and to promote efficient spinning-in of knowledge, innovation, and technological development into the defence sector. It also supports addressing hybrid warfare challenges and enhancing operational capabilities in a sustainable and reliable manner.

For more information, visit European Commission.