STRIKE IT 2026: a new impulse for cyber innovation, in collaboration with the Cyber Force
The Belgian Defence once again reinforces its ambition in terms of technological innovation and cyber security with the launch of STRIKE IT, a call for projects initiated by the Cyber Force and made possible thanks to the Royal Higher Institute for Defence (RHID). The programme fits into the dynamic of the Cyber Defence Factories (CDF), which are veritable hubs for cyber solutions tailored to contemporary operational needs.
A call for projects dedicated to the cyber security of connected objects (Internet of Things – IoT)
STRIKE IT 2026 supports innovative projects centred around the cyber security of connected objects that are used in defence and dual-use contexts, covering both civilian and military environments.
The selected projects will receive:
• up to € 150.000 in funding per project,
• for a maximum period of six months,
• a TRL (Technology Readiness Level) 7, i.e., a level of technological maturity nearing real-world use.,
A maximum number of 12 projects will be financed in 2026, for a total amount of 1,8 million euros. Complete applications must be submitted before 8 March 2026 (for more information, click here ).
Cyber Defence Factories: hubs for cyber innovation
The Cyber Defence Factories (CDF) are operational hubs created and managed by the Cyber Command to accelerate innovation in the cyber domain, applied to military applications. Located outside of military quarters, the CDF aim to strengthen public-private partnerships by focusing on so-called triple helix partnerships.
A strong synergy between the Cyber Force and the RHID
The collaboration between the Cyber Force and the RHID is based on the scientific and methodological strengths of the RHID, whose core mission is to structure, guide and evaluate research within the Belgian Defence. Through its Research, Development, Innovation and Industrialisation (RDII) department, the RHID has proven expertise in conducting technological and scientific programmes. Thanks to the different programmes and calls that are being financed each year, hundreds of scientific projects are launched with a potential impact on the Belgian Defence and society.
On top of this scientific expertise, there is the operational, technological and capacity strength of the Cyber Force. The latter provides in-depth knowledge on operational needs, drawn directly from the field as well as from the five operational domains (land, air, sea, space and cyber), in a context marked by constantly evolving hybrid threats and the digitalisation of military systems. Thanks to its CDF, which are fully operational already, the Cyber Force can offer a unique environment where civil and military needs meet. STRIKE IT enables the financing of rapid and agile solutions aimed at increasing the level of cyber resilience for the ‘whole of society’.
STRIKE IT 2026, a renewed momentum for cyber innovation
The info sessions and 11 and 12 February 2026 attracted around 100 participants interested in the programme, which shows that there is a real enthusiasm for cyber innovation in Belgium. STRIKE IT will undoubtedly become an unmissable event, promoting the emergence of innovative cyber solutions and helping to strengthen the capabilities of the Belgian Defence.
