The Arctic Region: Security and critical protection

Opening date: 06-11-2026. Closing date: 06-01-2027

The opportunity

This is one of three sub-calls under the Arctic Region Call for Proposals, supporting European space-enabled solutions to address the region's growing operational, environmental and security challenges.

Climate change, increasing maritime activity and the growing strategic importance of the Arctic are creating new security and resilience requirements. Critical infrastructure - including ports, energy assets, communication networks and transport corridors - is increasingly exposed to environmental hazards, operational disruptions and malicious activities. Arctic stakeholders require improved capabilities to monitor, protect and respond to emerging threats while maintaining safe and resilient operations across vast and remote territories.

This sub-call focuses on security, resilience and critical infrastructure protection. Applications are invited for space-enabled solutions that enhance the monitoring, protection and resilience of critical assets, and support authorities and operators in maintaining security and operational continuity across the Arctic region.

Topics of relevance

The priority areas below were defined in consultation with Arctic Region stakeholders.

Applications are particularly encouraged relating to:

• critical infrastructure monitoring and protection

• maritime security and maritime domain awareness

• detection of anomalous, suspicious or unlawful activities

• resilience of communication and transport networks

• emergency preparedness and crisis response

• cross-border situational awareness and information sharing

• protection of remote energy, communication and logistics assets

Value of Space

Satellite Earth Observation (SatEO) can provide persistent monitoring of critical infrastructure, maritime activity and remote operational areas. It can support the detection of unusual patterns of activity, the identification of environmental and operational risks, and the monitoring of changes affecting the integrity of infrastructures such as ports, pipelines, communication facilities and transport networks. InSAR techniques can support the monitoring of ground deformation and infrastructure stability, including risks linked to permafrost degradation.

Satellite Communications (Satcom) can provide secure and resilient connectivity across remote Arctic regions where terrestrial networks are unavailable or vulnerable. They can support emergency communications, crisis management, command and control functions, and maintain operational continuity during disruptions affecting critical infrastructure and transportation systems.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) can enable trusted positioning, navigation and timing services for maritime, air and land operations. They can support asset tracking, geofencing, infrastructure monitoring, incident response coordination and the protection of critical transportation and logistics operations across the Arctic.

What we look for

This sub‑call is open to:

• Companies (start‑ups, SMEs, large companies)

• Consortia involving industrial and non‑industrial partners

• Cross‑sectoral teams combining space and non‑space actors

• Applicants should demonstrate a clear user need, with users such as public authorities, environmental agencies, fisheries and aquaculture operators, port and coastal authorities, or environmental service providers.

What we offer

Funding is provided under ESA Business Applications non‑competitive conditions, with co‑funding rates depending on participant profile and Member State contribution.

• zero-equity funding*

• technical and commercial guidance

• access to our network and partners

• ESA brand credibility

*(50-80% depending on SME Status and Member State Approval)

How to apply

Proposals must be submitted via the ESA Activity Pitch Questionnaire (APQ).

Applicants are encouraged to engage with their National Delegation prior to submission.

Please note that the sub-calls listed above have been pre-authorised by the Danish delegation, subject to specific conditions and requirements. Please check the eligibility requirements applicable to Danish companies.

Full details on how to apply

Webinar

Join us on 4 November for a free one-hour webinar at 11:00 CET to learn more about BASS funding calls and this particular opportunity. There will be a Q&A at the end.

Register for the webinar