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EDF Strategic Alliances

About EDF Strategic Alliances

Denmark is strengthening its participation in the European Defence Fund (EDF) through four strategic alliances in key defence areas. These alliances are built on a mutual interest from alliance leads and members in mapping and consolidating Danish capabilities, while also forming a network of related organisations that can support each other in joining relevant consortia when opportunities arise.

Each alliance is led by a Danish organisation with proven EDF success, providing a structured platform for joint development and strategic positioning in EU defence funding. The initiative, funded by DALO/FMI and led by CenSec and the Danish Technological Institute (DTI), aims to enhance collaboration and competitiveness among Danish companies, research institutions, and other stakeholders.

Participation is by application only, ensuring that members have relevant expertise and experience in the alliance’s focus area. Read more about each alliance below and apply for membership.

 


The four EDF strategic alliances

1. AI in defence – led by Aalborg University

The alliance will support the prioritization of AI-related topics within the EDF. It will focus on building a strong national stakeholder network and ensuring that Danish priorities on AI in defence are clearly defined and actionable. This will support the Ministry of Defence in effectively lobbying for relevant topics and shaping the content of specific calls.

2. Multi-domain operations & situational awareness (MDO-SA) – led by Terma

The MDO-SA alliance will focus on core and enabling technologies for multi-domain operations, including software and hardware. The objective is to identify, echo, and reflect Danish strengths and priorities in the EDF programme. By increasing information sharing and coordination among Danish entities, the alliance aims to generate better positions and greater success in MDO-related calls.

3. Materials, resilience and environmental transition – led by Danish Technological Institute

This alliance seeks to enhance defence capabilities by focusing on advanced materials and component development while simultaneously addressing energy resilience and environmental transition challenges in military applications. Through collaborative innovation, the alliance will develop sustainable material solutions and energy-efficient technologies that enhance operational effectiveness, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen strategic autonomy in critical defence supply chains.

4. Robots, drones, and sensors – led by University of Southern Denmark & Danish Technological Institute

The Robots, Drones, and Sensors alliance seeks to enhance defence capabilities by advancing e.g. autonomous systems, AI-driven robotics, and sensor technologies for military applications. The alliance focuses on improving situational awareness, operational efficiency, and force protection through cutting-edge innovation in unmanned and intelligent systems. By fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and SMEs, the alliance will accelerate the development and integration of advanced robotics and sensor solutions. It aims to strengthen Denmark’s position in EDF funding opportunities by supporting the adoption of disruptive and enabling technologies that contribute to European defence priorities.

This alliance is open to organisations with expertise in robotics, drones, and sensor technologies relevant to defence applications.

More information

Please contact Rasmus Reimer, Funding Manager, CenSec, rasmus@censec.dk