TLDR:
- NATO allies confirm $1.1 billion innovation fund to invest in technology for defense
- Fund supports four European tech companies focusing on AI, robotics, and space tech
A consortium of NATO allies has announced the first group of companies receiving funding from a $1.1 billion innovation fund aimed at enhancing defense technologies. The fund, established in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, has the backing of 24 member states, including recent additions Finland and Sweden. The NATO Innovation Fund (NIF) has selected four European tech companies to receive direct investments, including Fractile AI, a London-based chipmaker working on faster language models, ARX Robotics from Germany, specializing in unmanned robots, iCOMAT from Britain, focusing on lighter vehicle materials, and Space Forge from Wales, using space conditions to build semiconductors in orbit.
The fund’s managing partner, Andrea Traversone, highlighted the importance of strategic technologies in securing a safe future for over one billion citizens in the alliance. In addition to direct investments, the fund has formed partnerships with venture capital firms to further support deep tech investments across Europe. The goal is to drive innovation in AI, robotics, and space technology to strengthen defense, security, and resilience efforts within the alliance.
