Dual-use technologies

What is this call about?

The topic funds dual-use cybersecurity prototypes, products and infrastructures, such as quantum-safe cryptography, zero trust and AI-driven threat detection, that serve both civilian and defence needs.

What does this call fund?

Scope

The topic aims to strengthen operational cooperation between the civil and defence spheres by developing dual-use working prototypes, market-ready products and operational infrastructures in cybersecurity that are relevant in both civilian and defence contexts.

Domains of interest

• Quantum-safe cryptography for secure communication and data protection.
• Zero trust architectures for endpoint security and protection against unauthorised access.
• AI-driven threat detection and response, including support for law enforcement analysis, in line with the GDPR and the AI Act.
• Cyber ranges and digital twins to simulate attacks on civilian and military systems.
• Security orchestration, automation and response (SOAR) platforms.
• Other cybersecurity domains where the civil and defence spheres share an interest.

Application areas

These domains are expected to be demonstrated and deployed in areas such as protection of critical infrastructure (for example undersea infrastructure, transport, communication, energy and health), secure communications, management of hybrid threats such as GPS jamming or cable sabotage, extension of SOC and CSIRT functions compatible with military requirements, and prevention of digital fraud and disinformation.

Expected outcomes

• Secure, standardised data sharing between civilian and military stakeholders, aligned with the GDPR.
• A European early warning system for cyber and hybrid threats.
• Joint civil and military training programmes, integrated threat detection systems and harmonised cybersecurity standards for dual-use technologies.
• Partnerships among national authorities, SMEs, academia and industry.

When is the deadline?

14 January 2027 (70 days)