Drone component manufacturers can receive up to €75,000

Copied! The Brave1 state cluster is launching a new grant competition under the EU4UA Defence Tech programme, focused on components for unmanned systems. Eleven selected teams will be eligible to receive up to €75,000 for prototype development and research. The competition covers the following components: Electric motors Flight controllers ESCs VTXs Cameras Thermal imaging cameras Onboard computers UAV sensors The target technology readiness level is TRL 4–5, i.e. prototype stage. The expected outcome for participants is an increase in technology readiness level. Applications are accepted from 30 April to 13 June; further details are available at this link. Projects will be assessed by a panel comprising representatives of Brave1, BRDO, the EU Defence Innovation Office in Ukraine, the Ministry of Defence, the General Staff, and an independent anti-corruption observer. Experts will evaluate innovative potential and scientific novelty, technical level and current TRL, availability of a production base and qualified team, potential for EU cooperation, project sustainability, and budget justification. The EU4UA Defence Tech programme was launched in late 2025. The initiative provides €5 million in funding, of which €3.3 million will go towards grants, with the remainder allocated to regulatory support, events, and similar activities. Under the first competition, the cluster selected 12 teams working on interceptor drones capable of speeds up to 450 km/h and aerial target detection systems. A third grant competition is planned for June 2026. Read more : What is the EU4UA Defence Tech grant programme and how will it work