Development of ecosystem and next-generation capabilities for a secured European Critical Communication System in civil security

Overview

Funding for projects developing secure, resilient, and interoperable communication systems to support civil security operations across Europe, with a focus on next-generation capabilities for the EU Critical Communication System (EUCCS). Targets consortia advancing mission-critical devices, post-quantum cryptography, and cross-agency collaboration for first responders and emergency services.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities established in eligible countries, including at least three first responder organizations as beneficiaries. Entities directly or indirectly controlled by China are ineligible. Public and private organizations, including SMEs, research institutions, and industry partners, may participate.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: €6,000,000. Funding is provided as a lump sum, with eligible costs determined by the Horizon Europe lump sum model.

What Is Funded

Development of secure communication devices and applications for civil security, including:

• Ruggedized, hands-free devices (e.g., wearable sensors, haptics, augmented reality) for enhanced situational awareness.
• Solutions operable in environments lacking cellular infrastructure, with high availability and resilience.
• Post-quantum cryptographic protocols for secure data exchange and authentication.
• Interoperable systems compatible with the EUCCS, leveraging 3GPP Mission Critical Services (MCX) and open APIs.
• Standardization efforts and gender-sensitive, inclusive design for diverse user needs.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6. Proposals must demonstrate existing prototypes or validated concepts progressing toward operational validation in relevant environments.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-05-05
• Deadline: 2026-11-04T23:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Horizon Europe Funding & Tenders Portal. Applicants must complete the standard application form (HE RIA/IA) and include a table with details of first responder organizations involved.

Post-Award Obligations

• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS for satellite-based data if applicable.
• Compliance with Horizon Europe reporting requirements, including financial and technical progress.
• The granting authority may object to transfers of ownership or exclusive licensing of results for up to four years post-project.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland. Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must align with the EU’s migration toward post-quantum cryptography.
• Solutions must address operational needs of first responders and support cross-agency collaboration.
• Entities must comply with restrictions on participation for the protection of European communication networks.