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Introduction: Bridging Innovation with Battlefield Reality
Welcome to Tech Pilot, a unique program by Defence Ukraine designed to connect cutting-edge technology developers with the invaluable, real-world experience of Ukrainian end users. If you are a startup, scale-up, or R&D team working on innovative dual-use or defence technologies, Tech Pilot offers an unparalleled opportunity to test, refine, and prove your solutions in the most demanding operational environments.
Our mission is to accelerate the deployment of effective technologies that can directly support Ukraine's defence and security capabilities.
Why Participate in Defence Ukraine's Tech Pilot Program?
Engaging with Ukrainian end users through Tech Pilot offers distinct advantages:
- Unmatched Real-World Testing: Move beyond simulations. Test your technologies in authentic, challenging conditions, gaining insights that are impossible to replicate in a lab.
- Direct Collaboration with Experienced End Users: Work closely with highly skilled Ukrainian military personnel and other defence sector operators who can provide immediate, practical feedback based on extensive operational experience.
- Accelerated Development Cycles: The rapid feedback loop allows for quick iterations, helping you refine your products faster and ensure they meet genuine needs.
- Validate Your Solution: Demonstrate the effectiveness, reliability, and applicability of your technology in real operational scenarios.
- Unique Deployment Data: Gather crucial performance data and operational metrics that can be pivotal for further development, validation, and attracting investment.
- Pathway to Impact: Successful pilot programs can lead to significant outcomes, including direct procurement by Ukrainian defence and security forces.
Who is This Program For?
Tech Pilot is designed for innovators ready to make a difference:
- Startups: Early-stage companies with novel technologies that have potential applications in defence or dual-use scenarios.
- Scale-Ups: Growing companies looking to adapt existing technologies for the defence sector, validate solutions in new operational contexts, or expand their impact.
- R&D Teams: Research and development units from academic institutions, private research labs, or established corporations developing promising dual-use or defence-focused technologies.
We are particularly interested in technologies related to:
- Unmanned Systems (Air, Ground, and Maritime) & Counter-UAS
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning for Defence Applications
- Cybersecurity and Secure Communications
- Robotics and Autonomous Systems
- Advanced Sensors and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance)
- Logistics and Supply Chain Innovation
- Medical Technology for Combat and Field Applications
- Advanced Materials and Soldier Protection
How the Tech Pilot Program Works
While each pilot is tailored, our general process includes:
- Application & Selection: Submit your proposal through our application portal. Promising technologies are selected based on relevance, innovation, and potential impact.
- Needs Assessment & Matching: We work to understand your technology and match you with relevant Ukrainian end-user units or testing environments.
- Pilot Design & Deployment: Collaboratively design the testing parameters and deploy your technology in controlled, real-world conditions.
- Data Collection & Feedback: Gather performance data and receive direct, structured feedback from end users.
- Evaluation & Reporting: Analyse the outcomes of the pilot, with a comprehensive report detailing performance, feedback, and potential next steps.
Key Outcomes for Participants:
Successfully completing the Tech Pilot program can lead to:
- Rapid Feedback: Actionable insights from experienced operators to quickly iterate and improve your technology.
- Valuable Deployment Data: Robust data sets proving your technology's effectiveness and reliability in real-world scenarios.
- Potential for Procurement: A clear pathway for proven solutions to be considered for procurement by Ukrainian defence and security entities.
- Enhanced Product-Market Fit: Deep understanding of end-user needs, ensuring your solution is truly fit for purpose.
- Contribution to Ukraine's Defence: A direct opportunity to support Ukraine's resilience and enhance its technological capabilities.