NATO's innovation accelerator DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) has unveiled six new technology challenges for its 2027 programme. The aim is to identify and develop solutions that can strengthen the Alliance's military capability and accelerate the adoption of new technology across member nations' armed forces.
In a press release, DIANA states that companies and innovators may apply until 3 July 2026. Selected participants will become part of DIANA's 2027 cohort and take part in a six-month accelerator programme commencing in January 2027.
The six priority areas are:
- human survivability in military environments,
- autonomy for unmanned systems across multiple domains,
- sensors and advanced data processing for intelligence and surveillance missions,
- operational resilience in contested and hostile environments,
- logistics,
- scalable and adaptable countermeasures for air defence.
According to DIANA, the challenges are based on NATO and member nation priorities, developments in emerging technologies, and market potential.
"Our new challenges for the 2027 cohort have a clear objective: to accelerate the adoption of technology that can strengthen the Alliance's operational advantage. By connecting innovators with NATO's defence network, we help transform innovative ideas into superior military capability for the Alliance," said Jyoti Hirani-Driver, Acting Director of NATO DIANA.
Selected companies will receive 100,000 euros in funding as well as access to more than 200 test facilities across Europe and North America. The programme also includes mentorship, support on defence procurement, and connections with defence authorities, industry, and investors.
DIANA states that the programme is aimed at defence-focused start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and established civilian technology companies with solutions applicable across both civilian and military domains.