EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2026

Date: 26.3.2026

Place: the University of Defence, Brno

The EUDIS Defence Hackathon is a European innovation initiative aimed at supporting the development of workable solutions in the field of defence and security. The Spring 2026 edition will focus thematically on the area of Defending Airspace, in particular the calls for action related to drone systems and new forms of threats. The local organizers of the event are JIC together with the University of Defence.

The Hackathon is designed for teams that already have a technology or advanced solution and want to strategically move it towards the European market.

Start-ups and teams with a finished product or advanced development ( UAV, AI, robotics, aerospace) that want to:
– test their solution in a real defence context
– get feedback from technical experts and practitioners
– establish direct contacts with European decision-makers and stakeholders
– open their way into the European defence market

Specific calls include:

1. Affordable drone interceptors | How to stop the threat more effectively and cheaper than today?
2. Next Generation Detection Systems | How to see earlier, react faster and operate in challenging conditions?
3. Protecting Against Airborne Threats | How to protect troops and infrastructure mobile, fast and at scale?

In addition to financial rewards for the winning teams of €5,000, €3,000 and €2,000, a key benefit is a structured mentoring programme. This includes targeted networking with European institutions, experts and partners in the defence industry and support in further developing and scaling solutions.

Applications are open until 20. March

Details and registration can be found at: ttps ://taikai.network/eudisCZECH/hackathons/2026spring

The Hackathon is funded by the European Commission under the Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS).