EDF 2025: €1 Billion for next-gen defence technologies

The European Defence Fund (EDF) has launched its Work Programme for 2025, allocating €1.065 billion to strengthen collaborative research and development in the defence sector. This ambitious initiative aims to support innovative technologies and enhance the strategic autonomy of the European Union.

Key priorities for EDF 2025

The EDF 2025 Work Programme focuses on 33 topics, divided into seven thematic calls, two non-thematic calls, and additional funding for strategic initiatives. Some of the main priority areas include:

• Ground combat
• Air combat
• Space-based intelligence and surveillance
• Cyber defence
• Energy resilience and environmental transition
• Advanced propulsion for next-generation rotorcrafts
• Medical countermeasures for defence

Additionally, the EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) will offer dedicated funding opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-caps, ensuring a more inclusive and innovative defence ecosystem.

Meet us at EDF Info Days 2025

To provide further insights into the EDF 2025 calls for proposals, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS) will host the EDF Info Days on April 2-3, 2025, in Brussels. This event will be a unique opportunity to:

• Gain a detailed understanding of the application process
• Network with potential partners for future EDF projects
• Engage with key stakeholders in the European defence sector

PNO will be present at this key event, with Valentin Polo, Senior Innovation Consultant and Team Leader of the Advanced Photonics, Digital Technologies, and Materials team, available to provide insights and guidance on funding opportunities under EDF 2025.

How PNO can help

With extensive experience in European funding, innovation consulting, and project development, PNO can support defence-related organisations in:

• Identifying the best funding opportunities under EDF 2025
• Building strong consortia and partnerships
• Writing competitive proposals to maximize success rates
• Strategic exploitation and dissemination of project results

For more information or to schedule a meeting during the EDF Info Days, please contact us.

Read more about the EDF Work Programme 2025: EDF Official Website.