The Ukrainian Brave1 cluster has announced the launch of a new state funding program for defense technology developers. Under the initiative, a grant of up to 8 million UAH can be awarded for a single project. The priority areas identified include the creation of laser air defense systems, robotics, and specialized evacuation vehicles.
According to the Ministry of Defense, together with military experts, the cluster has identified 53 priority areas for development. They cover nine different fields of activity. The main goal of the state is to find and implement solutions capable of ensuring a real technological breakthrough on the front lines.
Flexible funding system
The program is built on principles of flexibility: the grant amount ranges from 500,000 to 8 million UAH. The final figure depends on the stage of technology readiness. The funds received can be directed towards idea validation, manufacturing a finished product, or conducting final tests.
Special attention is paid to a new initiative — BraveTech EU. It was created specifically for the most ambitious and complex developments. Under this program, different rules apply: the maximum funding amount can be obtained even at the initial stage. The main requirement for participants is that a working prototype must be presented at the end. The list of critically important items for BraveTech EU includes more than 40 positions.
From science fiction to reality: Ukrainian Armed Forces priorities
Soon, Brave1 will announce the launch of specialized competitions. The total budget of these programs exceeds 100 million UAH. These funds will be directed towards the development of equipment that seemed like science fiction just recently.
Military forces are expecting the appearance of domestic radars and laser air defense systems. Also in focus for developers are humanoid robots and maneuverable aerobags. A separate item on the list of requirements is the development of protection systems against guided air bombs (anti-KAB).
During the Brave1 Advantage event, Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov officially announced a grant competition for the development of humanoid robots for the Defense Forces. In the first stage, Ukrainian engineers will work on simpler models that will be gradually improved.
New store and ready-made solutions
In addition to funding new ideas, the Brave1 cluster has opened its specialized store. In it, Ukrainian Armed Forces units can purchase everything necessary depending on current needs. For example, the APUS-1 drone interceptor is currently undergoing codification there. This device is designed to combat Shahed-type kamikaze drones and reconnaissance UAVs.
All detailed information about the conditions for participating in the grant programs is already available on the cluster's official website.
