Skip to main content

AD2S Innovation Challenge

Call for applications

Are you exhibiting at AD2S? You may be eligible to take part in the AD2S Innovation Challenge.


This initiative highlights innovative solutions in aerospace defence support and Maintenance in Operational Condition (MOC), in a context where operational readiness and resilience are becoming critical priorities.


MOC is evolving toward a more combat-ready model, combining operational (NSO) and industrial (NSI) support to ensure aircraft availability under all conditions.


Beyond traditional MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul), it now integrates technical, industrial, economic, and human dimensions that directly impact operational performance.


Participation in the Innovation Challenge is reserved for registered AD2S exhibitors.
Application deadline: Tuesday, May 29, 2026 – 12:00 (noon, Paris time)

Apply now

What is the purpose of the Innovation Challenge?

The AD2S Innovation Challenge addresses the need to accelerate innovation in combat-ready MRO.


It focuses on solutions that are:

1. Technically credible

2. Operationally relevant

3. Rapidly deployable


The challenge spans technical, digital, organizational, and human dimensions, including training and workforce transformation. 

Depending on the type of organization that has applied, applications will fall into three categories:

PRIME

Large companies and mid-sized enterprises

SUPPLIERS

SMEs, small companies, startups

PUBLIC

Public institutions and research centers

What we are looking for

Applicants must propose solutions that meet at least one of the following objectives:

  • 1. Introduce a concrete technical or digital innovation, or a combination of innovations.
  • 2. Address managerial, HR, training, financial, or regulatory aspects of MRO.
  • 3. Improve robustness and/or resilience of defense systems or forces.
  • 4. Demonstrate clear operational value in the aerospace or defense ecosystem.

Required characteristics:

Usable in an operational or industrial context

Feasible in the short term (within 5 years)

Based on solid scientific or technical foundations

Supported by at least a simplified quantitative assessment (impact, cost, or performance)

Applications will be assessed by a high-level jury composed of recognized civilian and military experts in aerospace MRO.

Who can apply

The challenge is open to organizations contributing to the European Defense Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB), including:

Exhibitors

Public and governmental bodies

Civilian or military organizations

Research centers

Private companies

Benefits for selected participants

Selected participants will benefit from:

  • An official award ceremony in front of high-level national, European, and international stakeholders (September 24)
  • Strong visibility within the AD2S ecosystem
  • A free outdoor demonstration area (up to 25 sqm)

Contact

For more information or to submit your application (PDF format), please contact:

Marie-Julie Castaigne

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.