Record 612 Proposals Under the European Defence Fund 2026 Calls

The European Defence Fund (EDF) has closed its 2026 calls with a record 612 project proposals, the highest number since the Fund was launched in 2021.

Interest in the Fund keeps rising. Submissions grew by 49% compared with 2025, after a 38% increase the year before. The 2026 calls make €1.006 billion available for collaborative defence research and development and, for the first time, they were also open to applicants from Ukraine.

EDF 2026 calls: 612 project proposals, 49% more than in 2025, €1.006 billion available — Figures: European Commission, 2 October 2026.

Where the 2026 budget goes

Major capabilities, about half of the budget. Collaborative projects that build on earlier EDF results and aim to bring them to prototypes ready for production and acquisition. Topics include a European endo-atmospheric interceptor for missile defence, a next-generation main battle tank, a multiple rocket launcher and a semi-autonomous naval vessel.
Critical and forward-looking technologies. Quantum-secured networks, electronic warfare, a cloud for multi-domain operations and high-performance energy systems.
Innovation, about a quarter of the budget. The EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS), with around €60 million set aside for disruptive technologies.

A strong response from SMEs

The €60 million in non-thematic calls reserved for SMEs drew a particularly high number of proposals. The Commission attributes part of this to the simpler application process introduced with the defence “Mini-Omnibus”.

Next steps

The proposals will now be checked for admissibility and eligibility, and then evaluated for excellence, award criteria and ethics with the help of independent experts. Results are expected by March 2027.

With a total budget of nearly €7.3 billion for 2021–2027, the EDF places the EU among the world’s leading defence investors.

What it means for Greek companies

More applicants means tougher competition. In the next calls, the proposals that stand out will be those prepared early, built on the right consortium and fully aligned with the call topics.

EBS Consulting supports Greek and international companies in preparing for upcoming EDF calls, from positioning and partner search to proposal and compliance. Talk to us.