More than 110 defence teams applied to the Defence Builder accelerator, with only 10 ultimately selected to join the program. One of the key selection criteria was whether the teams were building solutions relevant to the challenges the Defence Forces are expected to face over the next 6-12 months. The program also considers whether these companies have the potential to enter NATO markets in the future.
Selection methodology: forecasting frontline needs
Defence Builder has this year designed its selection process around analysing the dynamics of combat operations. Teams were evaluated on their ability to meet frontline operational needs. Of more than 110 applications received, 70 of which came through an open competition only 10 teams made it through the multi-stage selection, representing approximately 10% of the total. The key criteria included proprietary intellectual property, a core team of at least four people, and direct alignment with the current operational requirements of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The average maturity level of the technologies in this cohort is TRL 6 (prototypes validated in a relevant environment). This reflects a qualitative shift in Ukraine’s miltech sector: instead of only early-stage concepts, the accelerator now also focuses on teams that already have functional products and require support with advanced R&D, testing, and to scale production.
Technological focus and participating teams
This cohort's portfolio comprises developments aimed at achieving sustained tactical advantage on the battlefield. Priority has been given to systems with a high degree of autonomy and resilience against electronic warfare countermeasures.
Key areas:
Strike and interception systems: Long-range aerial vehicles and specialised means of intercepting airborne targets.
Robotics and remote control: Ground platforms for evacuation and demining, as well as remote control technologies for heavy equipment.
Reconnaissance and surveillance: Passive detection systems for identifying enemy assets via telemetry, maritime radars, and AI-based automatic target recognition systems.
Communications and command: Hardware and software complexes for precision guidance and integrated command of strike assets.
Military validation and NATO AQAP certification
One of the strategic partners of the accelerator is the 7th Rapid Response Corps of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces. Experts from the corps provide direct mentorship and an iterative feedback cycle for startup technologies throughout the entire programme. Each team is assigned a military expert who accompanies them from the selection stage onwards.
Parts of the international dimension of the programme is implemented through partnership with European primes, the Finnish accelerator 17Tech and access to the expertise of the Finnish Defence Forces. In addition, participants take part in workshops with representatives from VARDIAN (and members of the Danish Armed Forces), focusing on NATO certification and AQAP standards.
Outcomes and scaling
Over four months of intensive work, teams are expected to close structural gaps in both their business models and technical development. The ultimate goal is to reach investment readiness, including validated product positioning based on feedback from combat units, preparation of legal structures for operating in global markets, and the development of a clear roadmap for scaling production.
Alongside its own curated network of investors, Defence Builder prepares teams for engagement with international funds and government institutions. Demo Day will be held in June and will be invited only.
