The EuCNC & 6G Summit 2026 in Málaga marked a clear turning point in Europe’s journey toward next‑generation connectivity. Under the theme “6G – Connecting Intelligence”, the event highlighted how Europe is moving from exploratory 6G research to large‑scale validation and early deployment. As one session put it, the priority now is to “accelerate the development of mature 6G technologies and demonstrate their value in real‑world environments” .

For Flanders‑based stakeholders—researchers, companies, public authorities—the summit offered a preview of what the next years of European funding and policy will look like.

Europe’s 6G Strategy: Integration, Validation, and Sovereignty

A central message throughout the summit was the need to strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty in network technologies. The SNS Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) confirmed that the upcoming Work Programme 2027 (WP2027) will place greater emphasis on higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), large‑scale demonstrations, and market‑uptake activities. The first draft of WP2027 is expected in July 2026, with publication foreseen for December 2026 .

Several strategic directions emerged:

• 6G in operational environments: Demonstrations will increasingly move out of the lab and into real‑world settings, with a focus on measurable impact.

• Microelectronics as a strategic pillar: The integration of 6G and microelectronics is seen as essential for Europe’s competitiveness, and interest in this topic was “strongly highlighted” by the community .

• AI‑native networks and quantum technologies: WP2027 will explicitly integrate AI and quantum topics, reflecting the convergence of digital technologies.

• Dual‑use considerations: Discussions noted a growing attention to technologies with both civil and defence relevance, such as satellite communications and fibre‑cable sensing for maritime monitoring.

The cooperation between SNS JU and the Chips JU was repeatedly emphasised as a “key strategic area” for Europe’s future digital infrastructure, even though no formal joint calls are planned at this stage .

Lessons Learned

1. Higher TRLs and Demonstrators Will Dominate Future Calls

Projects that can show integration, validation, and early deployment will be favoured. This is a shift from exploratory research to applied innovation.

2. AI Is No Longer Optional

Around 80% of current SNS projects already incorporate AI/ML mechanisms, underscoring the central role of AI‑native network design in 6G development .

3. Microelectronics Expertise Will Be in High Demand

With Europe aiming to strengthen its semiconductor capabilities, Flemish actors active in chips, RF components, and device integration will find new opportunities—especially in cross‑JU alignment topics.

4. International Cooperation Will Expand

WP2027 is expected to include cooperation with Taiwan and other global partners, opening doors for Flemish organisations with international ambitions.

5. Standardisation Matters More Than Ever

The summit reiterated the need for Europe to “assure a leading role in standardisation bodies” to secure long‑term competitiveness .

Opportunities: Evaluators Wanted

SNS JU is actively seeking experts to evaluate upcoming project proposals. Profiles include industry specialists, researchers, network operators, start‑ups, and public authorities. Required expertise ranges from 5G/6G telecoms to microelectronics, AI, testbeds, and security. Evaluators must have at least five years of relevant experience and no conflicts of interest .

Looking Ahead

Europe is preparing for the transition from 6G research to 6G deployment. For Flemish organisations, this means new opportunities—but also the need to scale up, collaborate across disciplines, and engage early with the upcoming WP2027. The next months will be crucial as the draft programme becomes available and stakeholders are invited to provide feedback. 

Useful Links

• Explore the EuCNC & 6G Summit website: https://www.eucnc.eu/

• Browse the 2026 programme: https://www.eucnc.eu/programme/

• Interested in becoming an SNS JU evaluator? Visit the SNS JU website or contact NCP Flanders for guidance.