Initiative on aeronautical research for sustainability and safety

Aerospace technology is a high-tech sector that requires constant innovation to meet the demands of safety, efficiency and sustainability. Building a strong, national aviation technical competence increases export opportunities and job opportunities in highly qualified fields.

- By investing in research and innovation in the field of aeronautics, Sweden and our aviation industry can remain competitive on the global market, says Anne Lidgard, Vinnova's member of the program council for NFFP.

Sweden has long had a strong position in aeronautical technology, but in the coming decades the area is facing a series of challenges. Not least the transition to climate neutrality places new, radical eligibility requirements on technological development. The uncertainty in the outside world and war in the immediate area also have a major impact on the aeronautical field and the next generation of military aviation systems.

A strengthened aeronautical competence also increases our ability to work vigorously towards developing sustainable solutions. In order to further promote renewable fuels, electricity and hydrogen operation for aviation, there is a clear need to build and develop competence for a fossil-free development.

By investing in research and innovation, Sweden and our aviation industry can remain competitive on the global market.

In a time of increasing geopolitical uncertainty, the aviation sector also plays a critical role in our national security and defense capability. A strong national competence in the field of aeronautics enables participation in international cooperation projects and joint research and development efforts.

Vinnova is investing 160 million in aeronautical research in the spring of 2024

During the spring, a call for proposals is open that offers Vinnova and the Armed Forces funding for funding for Sweden's continued development of aeronautical research and innovation. The purpose of the call for proposals is to strengthen the Swedish aviation industry's competitiveness and contribute to the continued development of Swedish aviation technical research, development and innovation in the areas where more competence is needed.

- When we finance doctoral projects, we expect the call for proposals to contribute to strengthening competence development and securing national competence supply in the long term, says Alma Jacobson, programme manager for the National Aviation Research Programme, NFFP at Vinnova.

The projects must be carried out in active collaboration between industry and universities or research institutes, which is expected to contribute to both new and deepened existing collaborations for increased collaboration and competence transfer between actors as well as positioning of Swedish actors in international contexts.

The investment is also expected to contribute to taking decisive steps towards a climate-neutral air transport system and promote sustainable growth and community development in line with Agenda 2030 goals. Given the investment's clear dual-use focus, the projects are also expected to contribute to strengthening Swedish defense capabilities and the need for new technology to meet future threats.

Facts about the National Aviation Research Program

Aviation engineering research (NFFP) is a government assignment that started in 1994. In May 2023, the eighth stage began. The mission's main aim is to, through increased cooperation, research, innovation and information dissemination, strengthen the Swedish aviation industry's competitiveness and create better conditions in the field of aeronautical technology. The assignment is to be carried out in close cooperation with actors from Swedish industry, institutes and universities. Funding is done jointly by Vinnova and the Armed Forces, with aim of promoting civil-military synergies within the Swedish innovation system.

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Call for proposals for project that strengthens Swedish aviation research and innovation

Government assignment to Vinnova and the Swedish Armed Forces: National aviation research program, NFFP