Changes to the EDF Work Programme for simpler procedures and expanded investment areas

Today, the European Commission amended the European Defence Fund (EDF) Work Programme for 2026. These amendments align the EDF Work Programme with the so-called 'Mini-Omnibus' (Regulation (EU) 2025/2653 of 19 December 2025) by implementing simplified procedures for disruptive technologies for defence and reflecting the changes to theStrategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP).

These amendments will also benefit small and medium Enterprises (SMEs) and research organisations. Applications for the relevant calls have been halved in length, and the number of award criteria has been reduced. In addition, the evaluation process for proposals submitted in response to these calls has been streamlined.

STEP has also undergone an important change, with the introduction of a fourth investment area for Defence Technologies. Since STEP came into force in March 2024, close to EUR 24 billion of EU funding has been channelled to strategic technologies under the STEP banner. Now, almost all high-quality EDF proposals will also be awarded a STEP Seal, providing access to STEP's alternative of complementary funding opportunities.

Furthermore, the Mini-Omnibus formally paves the way for Ukraine to become an EDF-associated country, pending negotiations in accordance with the general association agreement with Ukraine.

About the European Defence Fund

The EDF helps reduce the fragmentation in investment in the development of European defence technologies and capabilities. It also strengthens industrial competitiveness and promotes interoperability across Europe.

Since the EDF Regulation came into force in May 2021, the Commission has committed almost €6.5 billion in total, becoming one of the top investors in defence R&D worldwide.

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