Are you developing technologies or products applicable to defence? The EC offers funding via the European Defence Fund (EDF) for new technologies and products that can be an asset to the EU Defence industry. The EDF will not only strengthen the industry and strategic autonomy, but will also give you the chance to offer a valuable contribution on a European level and collaborate with other parties.

European Defence Fund (EDF) 2026

The European Commission published the sixth EDF work programme. For this programme, € 1 billion has been allocated to support the development of essential defence technologies and capabilities. There are currently 26 different calls open, ranging from “Research Actions” and “Development Actions” to thematic and non-thematic calls. These are open for applications until 29 September 2026.

Development Actions and Research Actions

The EDF Work Programme 2026 consists of two types of calls: Development Actions and Research Actions.

• Development Actions focus on the (further) development and demonstration of defence capabilities, such as system validation and scaling up towards implementation (TRL approximately 5–8). These projects are generally partially funded and require co-financing from the project partners. Depending on the type of project, the funding rate typically ranges between 70% and 90%.
• Research Actions focus on defence research into new technologies, concepts and prototypes (TRL approximately 2–4). For these research activities, up to 100% of the eligible costs are usually reimbursed.

Within the EDF Work Programme 2026, € 676 million has been allocated to Development Actions and € 329 million to Research Actions.

Thematic and non-thematic calls

In addition, the EDF Work Programme 2026 consists of both thematic and non-thematic calls:

• Thematic calls are linked to specific technologies and applications defined in the Work Programme. These calls are generally more technically complex and aimed at larger international consortia. Funding per thematic call ranges from € 14 million to € 200 million.
• Non-thematic calls have a broader scope and provide more opportunities for innovative projects led by smaller consortia, including collaborations between SMEs. Funding under non-thematic calls ranges from € 4 million for Research Actions to € 6 million for Development Actions.

For whom is the European Defence Fund?

The European Commission encourages greater involvement of SMEs through the EDF. The preparatory programme, EDIDP, was therefore specifically aimed at SMEs. This approach is continued under the current fund by promoting collaboration between companies, research institutions and universities. Companies of all sizes, from small enterprises to mid-cap organisations, are invited to participate. It is important to note that consortia must consist of at least three companies and/or research organisations from a minimum of three different EU Member States. Organisations established in Norway are also eligible to participate in a consortium.

The European Defence Fund (EDF) for SMEs

Within the EDF 2026, specific funding opportunities are available for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs play a crucial role in developing innovative technologies and strategic capabilities that strengthen the European defence industry. Under the EDF Work Programme 2026, two specific SME calls are available:

• Non-thematic ‘Research Actions’ call for SMEs and research organisations
• Non-thematic ‘Development Actions’ call for SMEs

In addition, SMEs may participate as partners within a larger consortium under the thematic calls.

What projects and topics are eligible for the European Defence Fund?

The thematic calls under EDF 2026 focus, among others, on the following categories:

• Defence medical support, CBRN, biotech and human factors
• Advanced Passive and Active Sensors
• Cyber
• Space
• Digital Transformation
• Energy Resilience and Environmental Transition
• Materials and Components
• Air Combat
• Air & Missile Defence
• Ground Combat
• Force Protection and Mobility
• Naval Combat
• Underwater Warfare
• Simulation and Training
• Disruptive Technologies

Indicative budgets have been allocated per topic within the Work Programme. These range from smaller calls of approximately € 14–20 million to large-scale strategic development projects of € 150 million or more. The largest budgets are primarily reserved for heavy defence capabilities, such as air defence and ground combat systems. All specific call topics and their descriptions can be found here.

Budget

The EDF has a total budget of nearly € 8 billion for 2021-2027. From this budget € 2.7 billion is allocated for collaborative defence research, and € 5.3 billion is for collaborative capability development projects that complement national contributions. € 1 billion is available in the EDF 2026 Work Programme.

European Defence Fund application support

Do you want to know more about the European Defence Fund? We would be pleased to find out whether your project is a match for the EDF or any other funding programme. You can contact us via info@hezelburcht.com, call to 088 495 20 00 or fill in the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.