The NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme has opened its 2026 call for research proposals, inviting scientists, technologists, and security experts to put forward projects that can help Allies stay ahead of rapidly evolving threats.
The SPS Programme has long served as a bridge between scientific innovation and real-world security needs. Through funding, expert guidance, and international collaboration, it brings together specialists from NATO member nations and partner countries to tackle shared challenges. The initiative supports civil security-relevant projects aligned with NATO’s strategic priorities and helps build lasting partnerships across the scientific and security communities.
What SPS Is Looking For
While proposals related to any of the Programme’s Key Priorities are eligible, SPS is placing particular emphasis on topics tied to Innovation, Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDTs), and Defence Against Hybrid Threats. Areas of interest include:
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Autonomy: real-time data fusion, coordinated multi-platform operations, resilient systems for contested or extreme environments, and advances in human-autonomy teaming.
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Artificial Intelligence: integration of AI with other security technologies, AI-enabled cognitive influence, brain-computer interfaces, and human-machine decision-making.
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Biotechnologies: biosensors for CBRN threats, environmental monitoring, disease detection, and bioengineering or biomanufacturing for critical materials.
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Space technologies: space situational awareness, environmental monitoring from orbit, and advances in positioning, navigation, and timing.
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Hybrid Threats: improving civil-military coordination, strengthening societal resilience, and developing capabilities to detect and counter hybrid activities.
How to Apply
Proposals must be submitted through the SPS grant platform by 31 January 2026 at 23:59 CET.
Read the Call for Proposals here.
(AI was used in part to facilitate this article.)