Deadline: 19-May-2026
The European Commission is inviting grant applications to support the development and demonstration of advanced noise-reducing propulsion technologies for next-generation ultra-efficient SMR aircraft. The call focuses on lightweight and low-noise UHBR propulsion solutions, fan and intake technology maturation, and validated aero-acoustic modelling at TRL5, with a total funding allocation of €329.5 million.
What is this grant about?
This funding opportunity supports the development of advanced propulsion technologies for next-generation ultra-efficient SMR aircraft.
The goal is to:
- Reduce aircraft propulsion noise
- Improve propulsion efficiency
- Support lightweight system design
- Enhance the environmental performance of future aircraft
The project combines noise reduction and structural weight reduction to strengthen the viability of the Ultra-Efficient SMR aircraft concept.
Focus Areas
The call prioritizes:
- Development and demonstration of advanced noise-reducing technologies for UHBR propulsion systems
- Development of lightweight propulsion-related solutions
- Maturation of distortion-tolerant fan and intake technologies
- Improved and validated aero-acoustic modelling at TRL5
- Achieving cumulative noise reduction together with structural weight benefits
Funding Amount
- Total funding available: €329,500,000
This is the total allocation referenced for the initiative/call.
Project Objective
The project aims to:
- Improve propulsion system performance
- Integrate innovative low-noise technologies
- Advance fan and intake solutions
- Validate aero-acoustic models
- Deliver both efficiency gains and environmental benefits for future aircraft
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is open to eligible participants worldwide.
Eligible applicants may include:
- Any legal entity, regardless of geographical location
- Organisations from non-associated third countries
- International organisations
- Natural or legal persons recognised under:
- National law
- EU law
- International law
Entities without legal personality may also be eligible if they can:
- Exercise rights and obligations
- Meet the applicable call requirements
All applicants must comply with:
- Horizon Europe Regulation requirements
- Any specific conditions of the call
Why this grant matters
This call is important because it supports:
- Lower aircraft noise emissions
- More efficient next-generation propulsion systems
- Progress in ultra-efficient aircraft design
- Better aero-acoustic validation
- International collaboration in cleaner aviation innovation
Tips for Applicants
- Clearly align the proposal with UHBR propulsion noise reduction
- Show how the project contributes to TRL5 validation
- Explain the link between noise reduction and lightweight design
- Include strong technical plans for fan, intake, and aero-acoustic model validation
- Make sure the proposal fits the Ultra-Efficient SMR aircraft concept
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a broad propulsion project without clear noise-reduction outcomes
- Weak explanation of TRL5 modelling validation
- Ignoring the importance of fan and intake distortion tolerance
- Focusing only on performance without addressing weight and noise together
- Overlooking Horizon Europe participation requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main purpose of this grant?
To support the development and demonstration of advanced noise-reducing propulsion technologies for next-generation ultra-efficient SMR aircraft.
2. What propulsion systems are mentioned?
The call specifically highlights UHBR (Ultra-High Bypass Ratio) propulsion systems.
3. What TRL target is mentioned?
The call refers to improved and validated aero-acoustic modelling at TRL5.
4. How much funding is available?
The total funding allocation mentioned is €329,500,000.
5. Who can apply?
A broad range of global participants, including:
- Legal entities worldwide
- Non-associated third country organisations
- International organisations
- Other eligible persons/entities under Horizon Europe rules
6. Is the call limited to EU-based organisations?
No. It is open to eligible entities regardless of location, subject to Horizon Europe and call-specific conditions.
Conclusion
This European Commission funding opportunity is a major call for organisations working on next-generation aviation propulsion technologies. By supporting noise reduction, lightweight design, advanced fan and intake systems, and aero-acoustic validation, it contributes directly to the future of ultra-efficient and more environmentally sustainable aircraft.
For more information, visit European Commission.