Challenges
A phased competition, from problem definition to full-scale production
Rather than specifying a product, NIDT invites the market to deliver a desired effect. Competition drives the development and selection of the best solutions.
Challenge 01 · First topic
Defending the North Sea
Defending the North Sea is the first topic NIDT is tackling. The challenge will run for approximately three years.
The problem stems directly from the operational needs of the armed forces and is presented to the market as an effect to be achieved. Any organisation can register, from established Defense suppliers to innovative start-ups and research institutions. Once shortlisted, finalists work towards a prototype that is tested in the operational environment of the armed forces.
The instrument
The challenge, phase by phase
The challenge consists of six phases, followed by scaling and production. An evaluation and selection process follows each phase.
- 01
Preparation
A clear, concise problem drawn from the operational needs of the armed forces: what effect should it achieve? Preparation includes a consultation day.
- 02
Registration
Anyone can register through an open call, from established suppliers to start-ups and research institutions.
- 03
Conceptual design
Participants develop their proposed solution into a conceptual design capable of achieving the required effect.
- 04
Basic design
The concept is developed into a technical design, considering feasibility, costs, risks and scalability.
- 05
Proof of critical components
The most critical components are tested to establish whether the key elements of the design work.
- 06
Prototyping
The selected finalists build a prototype. It is tested in an operational environment of the armed forces to demonstrate how the concept performs under realistic conditions.
- 07
Scaling up and production
If the prototype passes the operational test, the Ministry of Defense begins procuring a first generation. This phase includes rolling out the solution to a wider group of users within the armed forces and fine-tuning production processes so it can be delivered reliably and cost-effectively.
Pace
A new topic every year
Every challenge is different and has its own timeframe. The ambition is to launch at least one challenge each year.
Want to take part in a challenge?
Challenges will be opened in 2027 through tender processes.