EUDIS Defence Hackathon Spring 2026: A Platform for Innovation in European Security
The Spring 2026 edition of the EUDIS Defence Hackathon is set to unfold from March 26 to 28, 2026, across eight locations within the European Union and Norway. This initiative aims to unite regional innovation ecosystems to tackle pressing challenges related to European defence and security. As part of the European Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS), this event aligns with the broader EU objective to enhance defence readiness and catalyze transformative innovations by the year 2030.
Local Organisers Enhancing Regional Defence Collaboration
Eight entities have been appointed as local organisers for this edition of the EUDIS Defence Hackathon:
- Czechia – University of Defence (UNOB)
- France – Starburst Accelerator SAS
- The Netherlands – Stichting Dotspace
- Norway – Fremtidens Industri (Future Innovations)
- Portugal – Oceanstrategy Unipessoal LDA (Productized)
- Poland – Krakowski Park Technologiczny sp. z o.o.
- Romania – ROTSA (Romanian Tech Startup Association)
- Spain – Arribes Enlightenment
These organisations will facilitate regional hackathons, positioning themselves as pivotal players within their respective ecosystems. They will bring together startups, researchers, industry leaders, defence users, and public authorities to foster collaborative solutions.
Strategic Focus: Airspace Defence
The primary theme of the Spring 2026 edition will be Defending Airspace, emphasizing the urgent requirements for airspace security and counter-drone measures. Participants will focus on specific challenges defined by local organisers and will engage in various creative problem-solving formats, including dedicated ‘hackathon’ and ‘makeathon’ sessions. These formats encourage the swift development and prototyping of innovative, dual-use solutions that resonate with European defence priorities.
Inviting Ukrainian Expertise
Ukrainian participation will be actively encouraged across all venues, inviting competitors, mentors, and jury members to contribute insights derived from their operational experiences. This inclusion aims to ensure that the perspectives of Ukrainian participants inform the development of deployable solutions that align with both regional and European defence strategies.
Mentorship: Nurturing Talent and Innovation
Participants will have access to the EUDIS Mentoring Programme, which serves as a post-hackathon acceleration initiative. This programme is designed to support winning teams in refining their solutions, enhancing feasibility, and preparing for engagement with defence stakeholders, investors, and EU-related opportunities.
Upcoming Registration Information
Registrations for the Spring 2026 EUDIS Defence Hackathon are set to officially open on February 16. This marks an important step for participants looking to engage in groundbreaking discussions and innovations in the realm of European defence.
The EUDIS Defence Hackathon represents a significant opportunity for professionals engaged in defence and security to collaborate, innovate, and influence the future trajectory of European defence readiness. With a focus on strategic airspace defence and inclusive participation, the event is poised to catalyze meaningful advancements in the field.
