NATO’s DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) program is expanding its reach with the addition of new sites, including Finland. Recently, the DIANA initiative board approved a proposal to establish an accelerator and two test centers in Finland, with a mission to foster technology, innovation, and business development for both civil and defence purposes.
The groundwork for this expansion began in spring 2023, spearheaded by Finland’s Ministry of Defence and the VTT Technical Research Centre. Collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders have now culminated in the realization of this endeavour. VTT is leading the establishment of a DIANA accelerator in Otaniemi, Espoo, in partnership with Aalto University and the University of Helsinki. Additionally, test centers will be set up at the University of Oulu and VTT’s Otaniemi site.
Drawing upon Finland’s extensive technological expertise and track record of success, these initiatives will focus on cutting-edge areas such as next-generation communication systems, 6G technology, cybersecurity, quantum, and space technologies.
Sauli Eloranta, Vice President of Defence at VTT, expressed pride in Finland’s involvement in the DIANA network, highlighting the opportunity for pioneering companies to contribute to NATO’s mission of safeguarding global security.
The DIANA accelerator in Otaniemi will provide specialized training programs aimed at helping companies develop deep technologies and innovations applicable to both commercial and defence sectors. Particularly targeting start-ups and SMEs with limited experience in defence, the accelerator will offer comprehensive training on navigating defence-related opportunities.
Eloranta emphasized the significance of this decision for Finland, noting it as an unprecedented opportunity for Finnish companies to leverage their expertise on a global scale. The DIANA challenge program will select companies for the accelerator through an application process, with the first round set to launch in 2024.
Furthermore, the establishment of test centers at VTT’s Otaniemi site and the University of Oulu will facilitate further technological development. These centers will provide companies with access to research infrastructure and expert support, enabling them to evaluate and enhance their concepts and technologies.
Eloranta highlighted Finland’s strong position in civilian communication systems and noted DIANA as a gateway for companies to enter the NATO defence market swiftly.
Overall, NATO’s DIANA initiative aims to address future challenges in defence and security by harnessing technological solutions. Through collaboration with a diverse network of partners, DIANA seeks to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative solutions with applications in both civil and defence sectors.