A consortium of NATO allies has confirmed the first tranche of companies awarded funding as part of the group’s $1.1 billion innovation fund. The alliance unveiled the fund in the summer of 2022, months after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, promising to invest in technologies that would enhance its defenses. The fund is backed by 24 of NATO’s 32 member states, including Finland and Sweden, which joined the alliance earlier this year.
On Tuesday, the NATO Innovation Fund (NIF) confirmed it had directly invested in four European tech companies, which it said would help address challenges in defense, security, and resilience. The $1.1 billion NATO Innovation Fund announced the first round of technology companies in which it invested, which focuses on AI, robotics, and computers.
The body has allocated funding to Fractile, a London-based computer chipmaker aiming to make large language models (LLMs) run faster, as well as Germany’s ARX Robotics, which designs unmanned robots with functions ranging from heavy-lifting to surveillance. The other two startups were British manufacturer iCOMAT, which makes lighter materials for vehicles, and Space Forge, a Welsh company that harnesses the conditions of space to build semiconductors in-orbit.
“Enabling access to strategic technologies is key to securing a safe and prosperous future for the alliance’s one billion citizens,” said Andrea Traversone, the fund’s managing partner. The fund has also partnered with venture capital firms Alpine Space Ventures, OTB Ventures, Join Capital, and Vsquared Ventures to support further investment in deep tech on the continent.
The investment in these cutting-edge technologies is expected to boost NATO’s defense capabilities, providing innovative solutions to address current and future security challenges. With the rise of AI, robotics, and space technology, NATO is positioning itself at the forefront of technological advancement in the defense sector.
Fractile’s advancements in computer chip technology will enhance the performance of large language models, improving communication and data processing capabilities for NATO operations. ARX Robotics’ unmanned robots will play a crucial role in surveillance and heavy-lifting tasks, increasing efficiency and reducing risks for military personnel.
Additionally, iCOMAT’s development of lighter materials for vehicles will improve mobility and agility on the battlefield, while Space Forge’s unique approach to building semiconductors in space will revolutionize satellite technology and communication systems.
By investing in these innovative tech companies, NATO is not only strengthening its defense capabilities but also fostering collaboration and partnerships in the European tech sector. The alliance’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies highlights its dedication to staying ahead of emerging threats and ensuring the security of its member states.
Overall, the NATO Innovation Fund’s investment in AI, robotics, and space technology marks a significant step towards enhancing defense capabilities and adapting to the evolving security landscape. As technology continues to play a critical role in modern warfare, NATO’s strategic investments will undoubtedly contribute to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
