The Arctic Region: Safety, Navigation and Operations

Opening date: 05-09-2026. Closing date: 05-11-2026

Scope of the funding call

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 is reshaping the Arctic, opening new maritime routes, increasing traffic and intensifying strategic interest in the region. This creates pressing needs for safer navigation, better situational awareness, resilient operations and improved monitoring of emerging risks, including unlawful activities and hazards to vessels.

This sub-call focuses on safety, navigation and operations. Applications are invited for space-enabled solutions that support safer maritime navigation and more resilient operations in the Arctic.

Topics of relevance

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

Applications are particularly encouraged where they address challenges related to:

• ice monitoring

• route optimisation

• search and rescue

• situational awareness

• overall operational safety in the Arctic region

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.

How to applyDocuments and guidance

Value of space

Satellite Earth Observation (SatEO) can support safer Arctic navigation by monitoring sea ice, vessels, infrastructure and environmental conditions. It can also help detect unusual activity or changes around critical infrastructure. InSAR techniques can support monitoring of ground movement, including risks linked to permafrost instability.

Satellite Communications (Satcom) can provide reliable connectivity in remote Arctic areas where terrestrial networks are limited or unavailable. This can support search and rescue, coastguard operations, emergency response, and the command and control of autonomous or remotely piloted systems.

Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) can enable accurate positioning, navigation and timing for maritime, air and land operations in the Arctic. They can also support the monitoring of infrastructure stability by measuring small movements over time.

Downloads

The Arctic Region: Safety, Navigation and Operations - Webinar Presentation