Deadline: 28-Jan-2026
The Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research (SSF) invites applications to establish a Centre for Autonomous Drone Swarms, supporting cutting-edge research in coordinated cyber-physical systems for civilian and dual-use applications. The centre will receive up to 60 million SEK over six years, emphasizing multidisciplinary collaboration, strategic alignment with Swedish and EU AI priorities, and real-world impact.
Overview of the Initiative
SSF’s initiative targets long-term, high-impact research in autonomous swarm systems, focusing on drones, robots, vehicles, and satellites. The programme seeks to advance internationally competitive work in:
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Swarm behaviour, coordination, and communication
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Sensor integration and perception
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AI-driven mission execution and autonomy
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Innovative drone design (lightweight structures, propulsion, communication)
The research approach encourages multidisciplinary collaboration, combining technical, societal, and industrial perspectives, and aligning with Swedish and EU strategies, including the Swedish AI Commission Roadmap and the EU AI Act.
Key Research Themes
The centre is expected to address:
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Secure-by-design swarm systems for safety and resilience
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Continuous AI-driven software development for swarm autonomy
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Swarm robustness and autonomous threat prediction/recovery
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Edge AI for heterogeneous sensor networks
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Integration of cognitive and behavioral sciences with engineering and machine learning
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Scalable resource allocation in swarm operations
Potential applications include:
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Environmental observation and wildlife monitoring
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Precision agriculture and infrastructure inspection
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Search and rescue missions
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Law enforcement and public safety operations
Funding and Grant Structure
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Total funding: Up to 60 million SEK over six years
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Initial allocation: 40 million SEK at the start of the centre
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Midterm evaluation: Release of up to 20 million SEK based on performance
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Exploitation support: 3% of the grant reserved for utilization and dissemination of research results
Funding will be phased, with a focus on sustainable, mission-driven outcomes, and governance through:
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A board dominated by industry/societal partners
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An international scientific advisory committee
Eligibility and Consortium Requirements
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Must include universities or research institutes collaborating with at least two industrial or societal partners
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The Centre Director must be an internationally recognized leader in the field
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Up to seven co-applicants may be included from participating institutions
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Emphasis on gender balance, international engagement, and strategic partnerships
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a comprehensive proposal including:
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Detailed research plan with milestones and KPIs
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Sustainability assessment and environmental impact
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Risk analysis for technical and operational challenges
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Intellectual property and utilization strategy
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Letters of intent from consortium members
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Confirmation of AI usage in research activities
The proposal should clearly demonstrate:
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Alignment with the international state of the art
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Scientific competitiveness and potential for high-impact outcomes
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Contribution to sustainable development and national strategic priorities
Selection Process
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Only one centre will be funded
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Evaluation includes scientific assessments, hearings, and strategic reviews
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The centre’s consortium will be judged on research excellence, innovation, societal impact, and feasibility
Why This Centre Matters
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Drives internationally competitive research in drone swarms and cyber-physical systems
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Promotes collaboration between academia, industry, and societal stakeholders
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Supports Sweden’s and the EU’s strategic AI and autonomous systems priorities
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Advances real-world applications in civilian, environmental, and public safety domains
Tips for Successful Application
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Ensure strong industrial and societal partnerships
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Emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration and global engagement
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Provide a clear risk management plan and sustainability strategy
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Highlight AI integration in system design and swarm operations
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Maintain compliance with national and EU regulations
FAQ
1. Who can be the Centre Director?
An internationally recognized research leader in autonomous systems or drone swarm research.
2. How many co-applicants are allowed?
Up to seven co-applicants from participating institutions.
3. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to 60 million SEK over six years, phased by evaluation.
4. Can industrial partners apply alone?
No, the centre must include academic/research institutions with at least two industrial or societal partners.
5. What are the application requirements?
Submission must include a research plan, KPIs, risk analysis, sustainability assessment, letters of intent, and AI usage confirmation.
6. How will the funding be released?
40 million SEK at the start, up to 20 million SEK after a midterm evaluation, plus 3% reserved for utilization/exploitation.
7. How many centres will be funded?
Only one centre will be selected through the competitive evaluation process.
Conclusion
The SSF Autonomous Drone Swarms Centre represents a unique opportunity to pioneer research in coordinated, AI-driven cyber-physical systems. With significant funding, strategic partnerships, and international collaboration, the centre will advance scientific knowledge, deliver practical solutions, and reinforce Sweden’s leadership in autonomous system innovation.
For more information, visit SSF.
