In a collaborative effort, Starburst Aerospace and Airbus Defence and Space announced the new Combat Cloud Accelerator, designed to source innovative solutions for the Future Combat Air System (FCAS). 

Set to launch in July 2024, the accelerator program targets small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, fostering the development of dual-use and defence applications.

The FCAS project, spanning Germany, France, and Spain, is spearheading Europe’s Next Generation Weapon System (NWGS) for 2040, with a focus on integrating disruptive Combat Cloud technologies, including AI, Cybersecurity, Supercomputing, RF Communication, Optical Communication & Photonics. 

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According to a relevant announcement, through the Combat Cloud Accelerator, Airbus Defence and Space aims to cultivate a dual-use environment for emerging European companies, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the FCAS initiative.

Integrating non-traditional innovators into the defence ecosystem is key to advancing the Future Combat Air System. This accelerator program will bring disruptive technologies into the Combat Cloud, ensuring seamless connectivity and enhanced capabilities for the future of European defence operations.

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