The European Space Agency opened a funding call on November 6, 2026, for satellite-enabled services supporting Arctic security and infrastructure protection. The Arctic funding call closes on January 6, 2027, and covers proof-of-concept and pilot projects.
ESA identifies co-funding levels of 50% to 80%, subject to company status and participating member-state approval. Companies and consortia can propose services that combine space capabilities with operational applications in the Arctic.
Observation, Communications, and Navigation
Earth-observation satellites are one component of the call. Their imagery and measurements can support infrastructure monitoring, maritime activity assessment, and observation of environmental conditions affecting facilities and transport.
Radar observations can measure ground movement. Interferometric synthetic aperture radar compares radar measurements acquired at different times to detect changes in surface position. That capability is relevant to infrastructure located on terrain affected by permafrost change.
Satellite communications provide another service category. The call includes applications for remote connectivity and emergency communications, linking Arctic locations with users and organizations elsewhere.
Satellite navigation supports positioning and asset tracking. These services can identify the locations of vehicles, equipment, and other moving assets involved in Arctic operations.
The funding framework supports development from an initial service concept into a practical demonstration or pilot. Proposals are submitted through ESA’s application process and assessed within the call’s technical and funding conditions.
