AGILE (Programme for Agile and Rapid Defence Innovation)

The proposed Regulation establishing the Programme for Agile and Rapid Defence Innovation (AGILE) sets out the legal framework for a new EU instrument designed to close the gap between innovation and operational deployment in defence. The proposal introduces a faster, more flexible funding model tailored to emerging defence technologies and innovative companies.

Key highlights

Purpose: Create a dedicated EU programme that accelerates the development, testing, validation and deployment of disruptive defence technologies, complementing existing instruments such as the European Defence Fund (EDF).

Budget: The programme is allocated €115 million under the current Multiannual Financial Framework as a pilot initiative to test a new, agile approach to defence innovation.

Closing the "innovation gap": The proposal identifies a persistent challenge in Europe: many promising defence technologies fail to progress from prototype to operational use. AGILE is specifically designed to bridge this "valley of death" between innovation and procurement.

Designed for "New Defence" players: Unlike traditional EU defence programmes, AGILE is tailored to SMEs, start-ups, scale-ups and non-traditional defence companies, which often struggle to access lengthy procurement and funding procedures.

Mission-driven funding: Instead of issuing broad research calls, AGILE will focus on specific capability challenges identified jointly with Member States, ensuring projects address real operational needs.

Funding tracks

Mission Development, supporting the rapid development and demonstration of innovative defence technologies.

Market Delivery, helping mature technologies reach procurement, production and operational deployment.

How it will work

Faster procedures: The Regulation introduces simplified grant procedures, aiming for a time-to-grant of around four months and significantly reducing administrative burden compared to existing EU funding schemes.

High funding intensity: Projects may receive up to 100% EU financing of eligible costs, reflecting the high technological and commercial risks associated with disruptive defence innovation.

Flexible implementation: The Commission will have the ability to launch targeted calls quickly, adapt work programmes to emerging threats and technologies, and use simplified funding mechanisms to respond to rapidly evolving defence needs.

Strategic objectives: Beyond developing new technologies, AGILE aims to:

• strengthen Europe's defence technological and industrial base;
• improve military readiness;
• foster technological sovereignty;
• increase resilience of defence supply chains; and
• accelerate innovation in areas such as AI, autonomous systems, cyber, quantum and space technologies.

Timeline

The Commission proposes that AGILE become operational from 1 January 2027, following adoption by the European Parliament and the Council under the ordinary legislative procedure.