The development of drones and unmanned systems has accelerated significantly in recent years. Particularly due to the war in Ukraine, the deployment of UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) and UGS (Unmanned Ground Systems) in military operations has surged. Defense strategies are evolving, and the demand for autonomous, efficient, and advanced drone solutions will remain high in the coming years. European defense programs, such as the European Defence Fund (EDF), play a crucial role in funding and supporting these innovations.

The European Defence Fund (EDF)

The demand for unmanned aerial and ground systems (UAS & UGS) is growing rapidly within the European defense sector. The EDF provides significant funding opportunities for companies focused on innovative drone solutions and autonomous defense systems. Whether you are an SME or a larger company, there are various opportunities to fund drone technology with defense and dual-use applications under this European program.

Why participate in the EDF?

• Access to development subsidies for R&D and drone technology development. Grants of up to €6 million are available specifically for SME-led projects;
• Opportunities for collaboration with defense companies and research institutions across Europe;
• Support for SMEs developing disruptive drone technologies.

Which Drone-Related Projects Qualify?

The EDF 2025 work program includes various grant calls specifically aimed at developing unmanned aerial and ground systems. Key themes include:

• Autonomous combat drones for military operations;
• Drone-carried munitions and offensive systems;
• Support drones for medical evacuation and logistics;
• Swarm technology for collaborative combat and reconnaissance missions;
• UGS (Unmanned Ground Systems) for combat and surveillance applications;
• Sensor and communication technologies for drones;
• AI and autonomous control systems for UAS & UGS.

Available Funding Opportunities

For drone developers, several funding calls within the EDF are relevant:

EDF-2025-DA-SI-GROUND-DAMM: Drone-based affordable mass munitions

This call focuses on the study, design, development, prototyping, and testing of a new generation of affordable mass munitions for indirect fire in ground combat. The focus is on affordable loitering munitions and small UCAS systems for tactical and operational deployment. These systems must be deployable on a large scale on the battlefield, preferably with swarm capability, and be produced quickly and in large quantities to gain a strategic advantage against conventional adversaries.

EDF-2025-RA-MCBRN-ATE: Autonomous triage and evacuation

This call focuses on two technologies that can save lives in large-scale combat situations with mass casualties. The development of drones within the CASEVAC system, including autonomous battlefield triage, and an autonomous CASEVAC system to improve the logistics chain to and from the battlefield. Required innovations include safe transport capabilities to a suitable medical facility within the hour, with basic protection against shrapnel, small-caliber fire, and various weather conditions, as well as patient monitoring.

EDF-2025-LS-DA-SME-NT –

Specific call for SMEs developing disruptive drone technologies.

Eligibility criteria

• Companies engaged in research, development, and implementation of drones and unmanned systems can participate in EDF projects;
• Collaboration required: Participation requires cooperation with at least two other companies from different EU member states;
• European focus: Participating organizations must be based in the EU or an EDF-associated country.

Looking for Opportunities in Civil Drone Applications?

Within the European Horizon Europe program, there are also various opportunities for innovative projects focused on drone innovation and autonomous systems. Wondering if your project is eligible for these grant opportunities? Our specialists are happy to check the eligibility of your project! Feel free to contact us via info@hezelburcht.com, call 088 495 20 00 or fill in the form below.