Solutions are needed that focus on five key themes, two of which are related to drones.  

Poland has launched a new accelerator programme aimed at defence tech firms and startups, a 16 December Polish Ministry of National Defence (MND) announcement has revealed.  

Dubbed the ‘MilTech’ programme, participating companies have the chance to secure non-repayable grants of PLN300,000 (GBP71,104) and mentorship services worth PLN100,000 (GBP23,701) under the initiative, which is being conducted with Polish industry accelerator, Ackes NCBR.  

This funding and support are intended to help successful companies grow and scale their technology, as well as commercialise their solutions.  

Key themes under the programme include innovative space and satellite technologies that “enhance the security and technological independence of the state”, Ackes NCBR said, such as jam-resistant solutions and space object detection and tracking systems.  

Another key theme is around UAS, with solutions sought that are “modular, scalable, and low-cost” and deployed using architectures that allow for rapid configuration adjustments. 

Other key themes under the programme include maritime infrastructure – including autonomous platforms and advanced undersea communications – as well as counter-UAS and AI in the context of “drone swarms”. 

Startups are encouraged to apply, as well as project teams intending to establish startups and innovators or researchers with projects that have passed the initial research stage.  

The application form to apply must be completed by 31 January 2026. Companies must then successfully complete the qualification process, which consists of a formal assessment, a substantive assessment, and “Pitch Day” presentations. 

“The MilTech programme is part of the MND’s efforts to strengthen cooperation with the innovative technology sector and build national research and development potential in the field of defence”, the MND said.