The European Parliament has approved the creation of the AGILE defence finance programme, with €115 million to respond to the new security environment and support innovative technologies, ECO News reports.

The legislation was adopted on October 6 in a plenary session of the European Parliament by 536 votes in favour, 101 votes against and 16 abstentions.

Funding for emerging technologies

The defence programme aims to respond to the new security environment of the European Union and provides €115 million in funding for small and medium-sized enterprises, including start-ups, “that develop emerging and disruptive defence technologies,” according to a statement.

These technologies include artificial intelligence, quantum computing, robotics, cyber capabilities, and space systems, with the programme designed to stimulate innovation through accelerated grant allocation and access to testing and certification, according to ECO News.

AGILE will also allow EU member states to adapt civilian technologies for defence applications, while decisions on grant applications are expected to be made within four months.

Connecting firms with defence contractors

AGILE will also facilitate connections between small and medium-sized enterprises and the main contractors in the defence industry, including the leading companies dominating the sector. This will happen through specific partnerships intended to increase the adoption of products supported by the programme.

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