NATO Command for Transformation, together with the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre, launched an innovative competition called Persistent Airfield Denial, aimed at finding solutions for the long-term disabling of enemy airfield infrastructure. The prize fund of the competition is 250 thousand euros, reports UNN citing Defense Express.
Details
Within the competition, participants are invited to develop technologies that will allow striking aircraft, runways, fuel and lubricant depots, ammunition storage, and other aviation infrastructure objects. At the same time, NATO does not limit participants in their choice of technologies or solution architecture; the main requirement is their practical effectiveness.
Focus on autonomous systems and resistance to electronic warfare
Among the possible solutions, drones of various classes, autonomous or semi-autonomous loitering munitions, swarm systems, and alternative methods of delivering munitions are being considered. At the same time, the proposed technologies must operate over significant distances, be resistant to electronic warfare measures, function without satellite navigation or operator communication, and operate effectively in any weather conditions.
A separate requirement is the readiness of the solution for rapid deployment. The technology readiness level must correspond to the prototype stage, and the first version of the system should be ready for delivery approximately one and a half months after the completion of testing. Full-scale implementation should be possible within a year.
Applications will be accepted until July 20, 2026. After that, finalists will present their developments to NATO experts. Previously, the Alliance has already held similar competitions to find solutions for countering guided aerial bombs and fiber-optic drones.