NATO and Ukraine Launch €250,000 Airfield Denial Innovation Challenge

NATO and Ukraine Launch €250,000 Airfield Denial Innovation Challenge

Image: Ukraine MoD

NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT) and the NATO–Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC) have jointly launched the Persistent Airfield Denial Innovation Challenge. The initiative offers prize funding of up to €250,000.

The challenge seeks solutions capable of restricting an adversary’s long-term use of airfield infrastructure and aviation assets. As per a recent press statement, eligible proposals must enable autonomous or operator-controlled targeting of aircraft, runways, fuel and ammunition depots, and ground support infrastructure.

NATO and JATEC are inviting Ukrainian manufacturers, start-ups, and engineering teams to submit proposals. Ukraine’s defence industry has built significant combat-tested expertise since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Ukrainian miltech companies have fielded advanced technologies across real-world operational environments, giving them a distinct edge in this area.

Organisers will select up to ten finalists in the first phase, with results announced on 11 August 2026. The submission deadline is 20 July 2026. Winners will receive prize funding following a live demonstration of their solutions.

The challenge reflects a broader NATO push to integrate Ukraine’s battlefield-proven innovation into collective defence efforts. Airfield denial has emerged as a key strategic priority. Both sides of the conflict have sought to suppress opposing air operations and degrade aviation support infrastructure.

Full challenge requirements are available via NATO ACT.

Read more on the Ukraine MoD website

Newsletter Sign up

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.