NATO innovation initiatives will pave the way for emerging technology operationalization

New initiatives have been started with the goal of accelerating the development of emerging and disruptive technologies that NATO has identified as priorities. Both initiatives – the Defense Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) and the NATO Innovation Fund will set a framework for the development of technologies with the participation of defence personnel, start-ups, scientific researchers, and technology companies. The initiatives will not only uncover financial opportunities and legal frameworks for innovation but most importantly, will also directly contribute to the further evolution of the NATO-wide innovation ecosystem. The overarching result is that the initiatives will strengthen ties with technology developers and academia, as they become more aware of operational requirements. ?

LMT in collaboration with the Latvian MoD has been working on the development of the national-level defence innovation ecosystem for several years. The national initiative has already garnered international-level interest from NATO, the European Defence Agency, and the U.S. Department of Defence. Particular interest has been paid to the application of 5G and its sub-technologies for defence needs. ?

One of the DIANA test centres will be established at LMT's 5G military test-site, following NATO’s increased interest in the potential of this emerging technology. Both initiatives, and especially DIANA, will serve as a transatlantic link for innovation development. LMT in cooperation with the Latvian MoD has identified the U.S. Department of Defence as a strategic partner in 5G technology development. DIANA will facilitate the availability of different U.S. innovation entities which will further contribute to the Latvian and U.S. partnership.

DIANA and NATO Innovation Fund opportunities will be used for the further expansion of the 5G defence innovation ecosystem in Latvia, as well as for support of national or international partners interested in 5G applications. Besides support to the innovation ecosystem, both initiatives will directly enhance further technological research. Thanks to the various?opportunities that the initiatives have made possible, the operationalization of 5G will continue. Testing and related activities will support studies of 5G application for different defence-related missions and tasks, as well as contribute to the deployability of technology. This?remains one of the main challenges to ensure the effective application of 5G in “on the battlefield” scenarios.?

Kaspars Pollaks,

LMT Innovation Lead Public Safety and Defence