The hackathon, scheduled for June 20 in Tallinn, Estonia, continues the joint efforts of Ukraine and NATO to find effective solutions for countering modern aerial threats. The previous NATO Innovation Challenge focused on countering guided aerial bombs (GAB).
The upcoming challenge is aimed at combating fiber-optic FPV drones, which are one of the most pressing threats in modern warfare. These drones are resistant to traditional radio-electronic warfare methods and pose a significant challenge to both Ukraine's Defense Forces and NATO forces.
Given these challenges, the JATEC team has initiated a search for relevant technologies capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing these aerial threats. The deadline for applications is May 30.
The competition is open to the defense industry of NATO member countries and Ukraine. Key areas for development include: detection and prioritization systems (radar, optical, acoustic, thermal, hybrid), rapid and accurate tracking of small high-speed targets, kinetic and non-kinetic engagement systems (including directed energy, nets, and smart munitions).
During the preliminary selection phase, applications will be considered only from organizations headquartered in NATO member countries, with team members being citizens of NATO member states. However, Ukrainian organizations are invited to participate, and their applications may be considered for later stages of the competition process.
Organizers encourage the development of innovative concepts, systems, and integrated architectures for detecting, guiding, tracking, and neutralizing fiber-optic FPV drones.
Proposed technological solutions must meet the following criteria:
- Detect drones at a distance of 500 meters.
- Operate day and night and under adverse weather conditions.
- Be lightweight, weighing up to 100 kg.
- Be cost-effective (costing up to $100,000).
Winners of the competition will have the opportunity to present their solutions to NATO experts, contribute to strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities and those of allied countries, establish partnerships with leading innovation centers within the Alliance, and open new opportunities for technology development.
The finalists will be announced on June 5, and the presentation of selected technological solutions will take place on June 20 in Tallinn, Estonia.
Registration for participation is available through the provided link.
