AI-based cybersecurity solutions provider Clavister has been selected as part of the winning consortium for the European Defence Fund (EDF) 2021’s call for ‘Unmanned Ground Vehicle Technologies’ and will receive around €530,000 in funding.
In July 2021, European Commission announced plans to grant a total EU funding of almost €1.2 billion supporting 61 collaborative defense research and development projects selected following the first ever calls for proposals under the EDF 2021. The Fund’s overall objective is to increase the EU’s technological edge and development of key capabilities for the strategic autonomy and resilience of the Union and its Member States, enhancing citizen protection.
General Dynamics European Land Systems, Leonardo, Indra, Sener, Iveco Defence Vehicles and 14 other European defense industry companies are also part of this consortium.
Amongst the selected projects, COMMANDS (Convoy Operations with Manned-unManneD Systems) will be centered around development of new technologies for Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and Clavister will ensure that the vehicles are protected against cyberattacks. The project will have a duration of three years and the expected EU funding is approximately €25million.
“It’s fantastic to be recognized as a valued member and cybersecurity specialist in this EDF consortium consisting of major defense industry players. This project will enable us to work closely with them to develop the next generation technologies that will help protecting Europe. It’s also an opportunity for Clavister to showcase our capabilities and deepen the relationships with these companies,” said Stefan Brodin, Clavister’s Head of Defence Solutions.
“The defense industry’s interest in unmanned vehicles is increasing rapidly. For example, in the aerial domain, we have seen the use of drones moving from trials into operations quickly. On land, the same is starting to happen now. Unmanned ground vehicles may initially be used for clearing mine fields and logistics, but also to support ground troops with remote controlled weapon systems. The fact that an unmanned vehicle is heavily reliant on sensors and communication makes cyber protection even more important. As a result, Clavister’s contribution to this project will be crucial, and we are excited to work with our defense allies and help build an ecosystem of European cyber defense,” Brodin concluded.
