Ukraine and NATO launch joint program for defense innovation
Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov and NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Šekerinska (Photo: FEDOROV / Telegram)
Ukraine and NATO will jointly launch the first UNITE — Brave NATO program aimed at accelerating the development of defense innovations, Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov wrote on Nov. 26.
"The pilot competition under the new program, with a total budget of €10M ($10.8M), will begin in 2026," he wrote, following his meeting with NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Šekerinska.
“On Ukraine’s side, the program will be coordinated by Brave1. From NATO’s side, the first competition will be implemented by the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA).”
The program will focus on developing innovative products for:
— countering drones;
— strengthening air defense;
— ensuring communications and navigation systems on the frontline.
Fedorov added that applications are planned to open in February 2026, with winners to be announced in the spring.
“Funding will be provided through the Comprehensive Assistance Package for Ukraine (CAP) and the Ministry of Digital Transformation,” the Deputy Prime Minister clarified.
Going forward, Fedorov said, the joint funding for the project is expected to increase to €50M ($54M).
“This is a win-win initiative for NATO and Ukraine, where innovators on both sides will develop joint solutions," he added.
"It will give the Alliance invaluable real-time experience, and give Ukraine faster development of defense technologies.”
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