Ukraine and NATO unveiled a new joint initiative aimed at accelerating defense technology development on 25 November, 2025.
The initiative shows how Ukraine has become a central focus for Allied defense innovation. Beyond battlefield needs, programs like this signal NATO’s increasing role in supporting Ukraine’s military modernization, strengthening interoperability, and building a long-term technology base that can benefit both Ukrainian forces and the wider Alliance.
First round targets counter-drone tech, air defense, and secure comms
The program, called UNITE – Brave NATO will focus on scaling tested and prototyped technologies to meet interoperability standards between Ukrainian and Allied forces.
Ukraine’s defense tech cluster Brave1 will coordinate activities on the Ukrainian side, while NATO’s Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) will manage the first competition.
The initial round will target technologies that counter unmanned aerial systems, strengthen air defense, and secure frontline communications. Teams combining Ukrainian and Allied companies will be eligible for joint grants totaling EUR 10 million, split equally between NATO and Ukraine.
NATO deputy chief: innovators on both sides will tackle battlefield challenges together
NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska said the initiative will allow innovators from both sides to tackle urgent battlefield challenges while providing real-time lessons for the Alliance.
Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov added that the program will accelerate the development of advanced defense technologies and strengthen interoperability across the Euro-Atlantic community.
Program could grow fivefold next year if first round delivers
If the pilot proves successful, funding for UNITE – Brave NATO could scale up to EUR 50 million in 2026, supported by NATO’s Comprehensive Assistance Package for Ukraine and matched by Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation.
Future phases will include counter-unmanned aerial systems, SIGINT systems, navigation in contested electromagnetic environments, and unmanned ground systems. Winners of the first competition will be announced at the second NATO-Ukraine defense Innovators Forum in spring 2026.
