EDF 2025 Call: Shaping the future of european defence

The European Defence Fund (EDF) 2025 call represents a pivotal moment for the European defence industry, fostering innovation and collaboration across a broad spectrum of defence technologies. With a budget of €1.065 billion, the latest work programme targets 33 research and development topics aimed at strengthening European strategic autonomy and enhancing the capabilities of the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB).

Key Highlights of EDF 2025

1. Budget Allocation & Strategic Priorities

The EDF 2025 programme is structured around nine calls for proposals, prioritizing strategic defence domains, including space, cyber, air combat, ground combat, and disruptive technologies. The funding is distributed across key thematic areas:

  • Ground Combat: €192 million
  • Space Technologies: €115 million
  • Air Combat: €103 million
  • Energy Resilience & Environmental Transition: €93 million
  • Cyber Defence: €54 million
  • Naval Combat: €54 million
  • Force Protection & Mobility: €35 million

Additionally, €67 million is allocated to non-thematic calls, specifically designed to support SMEs and research organizations in the defence sector.

2. Expansion of Third-Party Participation

For the first time, Ukrainian entities are eligible for financial support under the EDF 2025 work programme. This marks a strategic shift, recognizing the contribution of Ukraine’s battlefield experience and defence industry to European defence capabilities.

3. Research and Development Focus Areas

EDF 2025 supports both research (R) and development (D) projects across 16 thematic categories, including:

  • Defence Medical Response & CBRN: Developing countermeasures and autonomous triage systems.
  • Cyber Defence: Enhancing robustness and resilience in autonomous military vehicles.
  • Information Superiority (C4ISR): Strengthening multifunctional information distribution systems.
  • Space-Based ISR: Advancing space intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
  • Underwater Warfare: Developing stand-off anti-submarine warfare technologies.

4. The Role of SMEs & Innovation Support

Recognizing the importance of SMEs and start-ups, EDF 2025 includes specific calls for innovative defence solutions, technological challenges, and financial support mechanisms. The EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) will further assist SMEs through coaching, matchmaking services, and business acceleration programmes.

5. Sustainability & Green Defence Initiatives

EDF 2025 also aligns with the European Green Deal by integrating environmental sustainability into defence innovation. Calls include projects for naval hybrid propulsion, aircraft energy management systems, and eco-friendly land platforms.

Strengthening European Defence Capabilities

The EDF 2025 work programme is a comprehensive effort to drive European defence innovation while ensuring strategic autonomy. With significant funding and an expanded scope, it offers a unique opportunity for industry leaders, SMEs, and research organizations to contribute to Europe’s future security landscape. As the EU faces evolving security challenges, these investments will play a critical role in enhancing defence resilience and technological superiority.

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