BraveTech EU DefTech Forges: accelerating defence technologies from prototype to operational readiness
A new EU–Ukraine initiative to bring defence innovation closer to the field
The BraveTech EU DefTech Forges initiative is designed to accelerate the development of innovative defence technologies by bridging the gap between prototype-level solutions and operational readiness.
It targets start-ups and SMEs developing defence and dual-use technologies that are ready to move beyond laboratory or controlled demonstration environments. By integrating companies into high-intensity, end-user-driven settings, the DefTech Forges provide a unique opportunity to test, refine and mature technologies under realistic operational constraints.
The objective is clear: help promising technologies evolve from TRL 4+ prototypes, ideally TRL 6–7, into solutions that can respond to the real needs of military end-users.
From prototype to operational validation
Defence innovation often faces a critical gap between technical maturity and operational adoption. A solution may perform well in a controlled environment, yet still require further adaptation before it can be used in complex, demanding and fast-changing military contexts.
The DefTech Forges address this challenge by giving selected companies access to real-world testing environments, direct interaction with military operators, and feedback from defence experts and industry stakeholders.
Participating teams will be able to test and improve their solutions across key dimensions such as:
- operational relevance;
- system integration;
- ruggedness and usability;
- adaptability to real-world constraints;
- interoperability with existing defence platforms and systems;
- readiness for further testing and evaluation.
This approach is intended to help start-ups move faster, with clearer feedback loops and stronger alignment with end-user needs.
Who should apply?
The programme is open to start-ups and SMEs from the European Union, Norway and Ukraine developing innovative defence or dual-use technologies.
The DefTech Forges are particularly relevant for companies with:
- a TRL 4+ solution, ideally TRL 6–7;
- a full solution that can be tested as a standalone system;
- a clear defence or dual-use application;
- the ability to respond to high-priority operational challenges;
- an interest in receiving direct feedback from military end-users and technical experts.
Collaborative applications are encouraged, especially those bringing together Ukrainian and European companies. Partnerships should demonstrate a full system capability and an integrated approach, rather than isolated components.
What participating companies receive
Selected companies will benefit from a structured programme designed to accelerate technology maturation and prepare them for further operational testing.
Participants will gain access to:
- Real-world testing environments
Companies will be able to validate and refine their technologies under realistic operational constraints, including in controlled experimentation conditions and military-relevant environments.
- Direct collaboration with military end-users
Start-ups will work closely with military operators, technical experts and defence stakeholders to test, adapt and improve their technologies based on actionable feedback.
- Mentoring and preparation support
Each selected team will receive access to 40 hours of mentoring during a 2-month Mentoring Programme, helping them prepare for testing, evaluation and potential follow-on opportunities.
- Financial rewards
The top 3 teams per DefTech Forge edition will share €120,000 in prize money.
- Cross-border EU–Ukraine collaboration
The programme creates opportunities for European and Ukrainian innovators to work together, combining frontline operational insights with advanced technological capabilities.
- Pathway to Phase 2 testing and evaluation
Winning teams will be prepared for potential transition into Phase 2 Testing & Evaluation campaigns, implemented by the European Defence Agency. The first EDA-led Operational Experimentation Campaign is planned from 28 September to 13 October 2026 in Portugal.
Bringing Ukrainian battlefield insights into European defence innovation
The DefTech Forges are part of BraveTech EU, a broader EU–Ukraine defence cooperation initiative launched in July 2025 at the Ukraine Recovery Conference.
BraveTech EU connects the Ukrainian Ministry of Digital Transformation and its BRAVE1 defence tech platform with European programmes such as the EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS). Its purpose is to accelerate the transition from idea generation and early-stage experimentation to deployable battlefield solutions.
Within the DefTech Forges, BRAVE1 plays a key role in defining technology themes based on the needs and priorities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. It also facilitates engagement with military units and experts, ensuring that participating companies benefit from direct operational insights.
Strengthening Europe’s defence innovation ecosystem
Beyond individual company support, the DefTech Forges aim to strengthen the broader European defence innovation ecosystem.
The programme creates a methodology for helping young innovative companies engage with military end-users, test their technologies in relevant environments, and prepare for future integration into defence capability pipelines.
It also brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- start-ups and SMEs;
- military experts;
- mentors;
- defence industry players;
- investors;
- European institutions;
- Ukrainian defence stakeholders.
For industry partners and investors, the initiative offers early access to high-potential defence technologies and direct engagement with start-ups addressing urgent operational challenges.
For mentors, the programme offers the opportunity to work closely with innovative defence founders, support the maturation of next-generation capabilities, and contribute directly to Europe’s defence readiness.
Governance and implementation
The BraveTech EU DefTech Forges are organised by the Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS), in collaboration with BRAVE1 and the European Defence Agency.
The initiative is implemented by the Civitta, Starburst and Darkstar consortium, which provides the overall framework, methodology and coordination. Local organisers are responsible for delivering the DefTech Forge editions in line with the consortium’s guidelines.
Apply now
If your company is developing a TRL 4+ defence or dual-use technology and is ready to test it in realistic operational conditions, the DefTech Forges offer a unique opportunity to accelerate your path towards operational readiness.
Applications are open until May 10th.
