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Complementing and amplifying Member States’ efforts, the Fund promotes cooperation among companies and research actors of all sizes and geographic origin in the Union, in research and development of state-of-the-art and interoperable defence technology and equipment. The Fund supports competitive and collaborative projects throughout the entire cycle of research and development for a bigger impact on the European defence capability and industrial landscape.
It strongly encourages participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in collaborative projects and fosters breakthrough innovative solutions.
The EDF was preceded by two test programmes with limited duration and budget – the Preparatory Action on Defence Research (PADR) and the European Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP).

Discover the EDF by watching the video (EN/DE/FR)
EDF Budget
A budget of close to €8 billion for 2021-2027 is dedicated to the European Defence Fund. €2.7 billion to fund collaborative defence research and €5.3 billion euros to fund collaborative capability development projects complementing national contributions.
For info on how to become active, read how to get started with EDF.
ann.janssens@vlaio.be
+32 2 553 03 24
mark.antonissen@vlaio.be
+32 2 432 43 05
Find the contact info on the site of FOD economy
The National Contact Points (NCPs) provide support, guidance, and practical information to potential applicants, helping them navigate funding opportunities and application processes.
The National Focal Point (NFP) members represent their country in decision-making about the work programmes, evaluate implementation, and provide strategic input on priorities and calls.
Digital, Industry & Space Digital Europe AI Continent Cybersecurity
Flanders is pursuing an active industry and export policy focused on defence innovation. With the Flemish Innovation and Industry Strategy for Security and Defence (VISD) and a new weapon trading decree, the government plans to help local companies market their technologies internationally. The European defence and security market is rapidly expan... read more
Infosheets contain edited content on aspects related to this programme. They are reviewed at least yearly.
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Funded under Horizon Europe (HORIZON-INFRA-2024-TECH-01-03) and running from 2025 to 2028, UrbanAIR develops advanced digital twins that simulate the interactions between urban climate, human behaviour, and policy choices. These models enable cities to explore what-if scenarios, such as new green infrastructure, mobility measures or building designs, and assess their impacts on health, safety and social equity. The project consortium consists of 18 partners from 11 countries. Read more about the project and the contribution of Flemish partner Vito in this testimonial.