Deadline Date: June 03, 2026
The Innovate UK is inviting applications to support innovative projects aimed at advancing and commercialising dual-use aviation technologies for both civil and military applications.
The focus areas include development and adoption of dual-use aviation technologies, Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, hybrid electric Vertical Take Off and Landing aircraft, hybrid electric Conventional Take Off and Landing aircraft, swarming and collaborative aviation systems, autonomous aviation systems, and technologies that support both civilian and military use or are adapted between these sectors.
The competition is designed to encourage projects that build on existing advanced technologies and move them closer to commercialisation and operational readiness. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their solutions can meet end-user and operational needs while also considering the potential for large-scale manufacturing.
Projects must contribute to the development, integration, or operational readiness of aviation systems at a technology readiness level of 5 or above at the system level. The technologies can be designed for both civilian and military purposes, or adapted from one sector for use in the other, provided there is a clear pathway to commercialisation in both civil and defence markets and alignment with government priorities.
The total eligible grant funding for projects must range between £300,000 and £1.25 million, with project durations lasting between 8 and 12 months.
To be eligible, projects must include a UK-based customer or operator as a partner, and all funded organisations must carry out their work within the United Kingdom. Applicants must also demonstrate their intention to exploit the project outcomes within or from the UK. Projects are required to start on the first day of a month, and cannot begin until the Grant Offer Letter has been approved.
For more information, visit GOV.UK.
