Call for Participants: EUDIS Defence Hackathon Spring 2026
The EUDIS Defence Hackathon Spring 2026 has officially commenced its registration process. Starting 16 February, innovators from across Europe and beyond are invited to engage in this premier initiative that bolsters defence innovation within the European Union framework.
Key Details and Focus Area
Now in its fourth iteration, the EUDIS Defence Hackathon is set to unfold from 26 to 28 March 2026, across eight distinct venues throughout the European Union and Norway. This year’s focus will be Defending Airspace, with specific emphasis on addressing pivotal challenges such as airspace protection, drone technologies, and emerging threats.
Having built on the success of three previous editions, which garnered participation from over 1,200 individuals, the Spring 2026 edition amplifies the EU’s commitment to aligning Europe’s burgeoning defence ecosystem with immediate organisational needs within the sector.
A Platform for Innovators
The hackathon is crafted for startups, researchers, engineers, developers, and defence professionals who possess the vision and expertise to translate concepts into viable solutions. Participants will engage intensively with real-world defence dilemmas, collaborating closely with industry experts, defence stakeholders, and end-users.
In addition to the immediate hackathon experience, EUDIS provides a pathway for innovators looking to further refine their solutions within the European defence landscape.
Theme: Defending Airspace
The Defending Airspace theme responds to urgent and dynamic challenges associated with airspace security, involving areas such as drone detection, surveillance, and protection systems. These challenges reflect the European Union’s ongoing collaboration with Ukraine and highlight the concrete operational requirements faced by defence entities.
Participants will work to develop and prototype solutions in conjunction with industry experts and operators, ensuring that innovative concepts are firmly rooted in practical applications.
Post-Hackathon Opportunities
Winning teams will receive access to a bespoke mentoring programme aimed at further advancing their solutions for real-world deployment. This will include insights from defence and innovation professionals, as well as strategies for business development and operational implementation.
Additionally, selected teams will enjoy increased visibility at European-level events and have opportunities for pitching sessions and networking with defence stakeholders, investors, industry representatives, and EU institutions.
Encouraging Ukrainian Participation
DG DEFIS actively invites Ukrainian individuals to partake in the Spring 2026 edition, whether as competitors, mentors, or jury members. Their insights and operational experiences are invaluable in shaping innovative and effective defence solutions.
Registration Process
Participant registration will be open from 16 February to 20 March 2026.
Important Timeline
- Registration period: 16 February – 20 March 2026
- Hackathon dates: 26–28 March 2026
- Informational Webinar: Date to be announced
Interested innovators can access registration and further details on the official website:
👉 EUDIS Hackathon Website
Contact Information
For media inquiries, partnerships, or additional information, please reach out to:
📩 contact[at]eudis-hackathon[dot]eu
