Deadline Date: May 19, 2026
The European Commission has opened a significant funding opportunity aimed at advancing the development and demonstration of ultra-efficient rear fuselage and empennage solutions for the next-generation SMR Aircraft.
The focus of this call includes the development and demonstration of an Ultra-Efficient Rear Fuselage and Empennage (RFE) and its integrated industrial system for the Ultra-Efficient SMR Aircraft, targeting the delivery of a full RFE component assembly alongside an industrial system that incorporates advanced manufacturing and assembly processes. The program aims to support high-rate production of these structural components at TRL6, with a specific goal of significantly reducing component-level weight and enhancing competitiveness through co-development of product and production processes, while ensuring a clear route towards certification, exploitation, and industrialization in line with EIS 2035.
This initiative provides a total funding of €329,500,000.00 and welcomes participation from any legal entity regardless of its place of establishment, including entities from non-associated third countries and international organizations. Eligible participants must comply with Horizon Europe regulations and register in the Participant Register to obtain a validated Participant Identification Code (PIC), which is required for signing the grant agreement. Legal entities must provide documentation proving their legal status and origin during the grant preparation stage, although having a validated PIC is not a prerequisite for submitting an application.
The program emphasizes the integration of industrial systems with advanced production methods, aiming to streamline both manufacturing and assembly for ultra-efficient aircraft components. By targeting TRL6, the initiative ensures that the components and processes are mature enough for industrial deployment, paving the way for certification and market adoption in line with future aviation standards for EIS 2035. This funding opportunity provides a unique platform for entities aiming to contribute to cutting-edge aerospace development and drive innovation in structural efficiency and production technology.
For more information, visit European Commission (EC).
