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EDF Research Actions

EDF Research Actions

Funds collaborative European defense research consortia delivering disruptive solutions across security, space, and quantum technologies.

OpenEuropean Defence Fund (DG DEFIS)EUNorway

The European Defence Fund (EDF) is managed by DG DEFIS (Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space) and provides EU-level funding for collaborative defence research and capability development. The 2026 Annual Work Programme was adopted on 17 December 2025, allocating approximately €1 billion across 31 call topics. Of that total, €329 million is dedicated to Research Actions, which target f…

Defence research across all military domains and key enabling technologies. 2026 topics include major defence capabilities (endo-atmospheric interceptor, main battle tank, multiple rocket launcher, semi-autonomous vessel), critical technologies (quantum-secured networks, electronic warfare, multi-domain operations cloud, high-performance energy), and threats from hypersonic glide vehicles. Specific 14 topics published in EDF 2026 Call Topic Descriptions.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.26 Nov 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.26 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€380M

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu