Intergovernmental military alliance Nato is set to launch a new initiative that seeks to hone the military alliance’s technological edge over adversaries.

This comes after the allied foreign ministers approved the charter of the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA).

According to a Nato statement, DIANA will enable the defence personnel to work with the alliance’s scientific researchers, technology companies, and start-ups to address critical defence and security challenges.

The participants will also gain access to a network of accelerator sites and test centres located around member countries.

Nato secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said: “Working with the private sector and academia, allies will ensure that we can harness the best of new technology for transatlantic security.”

The leaders of the member countries have agreed that DIANA would have two regional offices, one in Europe, and another in North America.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The new initiative will focus on emerging and disruptive technologies that are identified as priorities.

These technologies include artificial intelligence, big-data processing, quantum-enabled technologies, biotechnology, autonomy, novel materials, and space.

Several Nato allies have also agreed to establish a multi-sovereign venture capital fund.

This multinational Nato Innovation Fund will invest up to €1bn ($1.08bn) in early-stage start-ups, and other deep tech funds, that are aligned with the military alliance’s strategic objectives.

Last month, Nato opened the first Multinational Ammunition Warehousing Initiative (MAWI) location, in Estonia.

Other allied members can use the facility to stock their ammunition, thereby reducing logistical challenges.