National · Sweden · Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV)
Under a standing government assignment, FMV runs recurring military innovation challenges built on needs identified by Ukraine, converting civilian innovation into military capability within 12 months. Shortlisted companies pitch to an expert jury including Ukrainian representatives; winners receive development contracts of up to SEK 20 million per project, with resulting systems to be ordered and donated to Ukraine in future support packages. The 2026 challenge targets countermeasures and protection against drone swarms attacking vehicles on the move.
One of the fastest funded routes from prototype to a real battlefield customer in Europe: serial delivery is expected roughly 18 months after the call, and the buyer is the Swedish state.
Danish Ministry of Defence / Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (FMI/DALO)
The single largest pot of near-term Danish defence procurement money, with an explicit invitation for industry to propose what to buy. Speed to fielding is the main selection criterion.
German Federal Government (BMVg and BMI)
One of very few German vehicles paying companies directly for security and defence-relevant research, with multi-million-euro phased contracts. Procurement-law process means longer lead times; watch the partnering events.
Next deadline 6 Oct
Industrial Development Agency (Agencja Rozwoju Przemysłu S.A.), Polish state development agency
A flexible state lender willing to bank defence-industry companies that commercial banks often avoid, useful for contract financing and liquidity in scaling defence production. No fixed calls: financing is negotiated case by case.