Market Intelligence
Defense Equipment United Kingdom

United Kingdom Defense and NATO Seek Emerging and Disruptive Technologies

The UK MOD’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is leading a NATO research competition to gather ideas from industry and academia to develop and adopt new technologies to maintain NATO’s technological edge through innovation.  

Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems and quantum technologies are changing the world and the way NATO operates. These and other emerging and disruptive technologies (EDTs) present both risks and opportunities for NATO and Allies. That is why NATO is working with public and private sector partners, academia and civil society to develop and adopt new technologies, establish international principles of responsible use, and maintain NATO’s technological edge through innovation.

EDTs are increasingly touching all aspects of life, from electronics like phones and computers, to everyday activities like grocery shopping and banking. These technologies are also having a profound impact on security. Innovative technologies are providing new opportunities for NATO militaries, helping them become more effective, resilient, cost-efficient and sustainable as well as addressing immediate capability shortfalls. These technologies, however, also represent new threats from state and non-state actors, both militarily and to civilian society.

To embrace these opportunities while also countering threats enabled by EDTs, NATO is working to develop responsible, innovative and agile EDT policies, and is helping Allies to accelerate the adoption and integration of new technological products. By working more closely with relevant partners in academia and the private sector, NATO aims to maintain its technological edge and military superiority, helping deter aggression and defend Allied countries.

NATO’s innovation activities currently focus on nine priority technology areas:

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Autonomous systems
  • Quantum technologies
  • Biotechnology and human enhancement technologies
  • Space
  • Hypersonic systems
  • Novel materials and manufacturing
  • Energy and propulsion
  • Next-generation communications networks

To gather ideas on emerging and disruptive technologies, Dstl is looking for from industry and academia to write an original think piece, which answers the question: What do you think are the opportunities and risks of emerging and disruptive technologies?

You can choose to write about opportunities or risks, or both. There is no right or wrong format for the think piece, but the following format is suggested:

  • Essays
  • Advocacy briefs
  • Bullet point lists
  • Brainstorming pieces

There is a 1000-word limit on submissions.

Writers of the 3 best think pieces will be invited to present their entry at a future NATO event. The overall winner will be determined by a panel at this event. Writers of the top 10 think pieces will receive certificates of commendation that can be included as part of a curriculum vitae. The top 10 think pieces may be published in the NATO Journal for Science and Technology.

Submissions are required by Friday, 6 February 2026 and the winners will be announced in May 2026.

U.S. companies have a worldwide reputation for innovative products, after sales service, and training which makes them competitive in the UK market and with the MOD. The U.S. and UK also share similar business cultures and business practices, which makes the UK an attractive market for U.S. suppliers.

If you would like to submit your ideas to NATO and Dstl on emerging and disruptive technologies, or if you would like to learn more about security and defense opportunities in the UK, please contact PJ Menner at the U.S. Embassy London via PJ.Menner@trade.gov.