Regulatory Evolution of the European Defence Fund: the 2026 Work Programme Amendments
The European Commission has officially updated the 2026 Work Programme for the European Defence Fund to align with the “Mini-Omnibus” regulation and the STEP platform.
On February 4, 2026, the European Commission officially updated the European Defence Fund (EDF) Work Programme for the 2026 cycle. This adjustment is primarily designed to harmonize the fund’s operational framework with the newly established Regulation (EU) 2025/2653, commonly referred to as the “Mini-Omnibus” regulation. By refining these guidelines, the Commission aims to create a more responsive and agile funding environment that can keep pace with rapidly evolving geopolitical security needs. The amendments represent a significant shift in how the European Union manages its strategic defense investments, prioritizing speed and accessibility without compromising the rigorous standards of technical excellence. This update serves as a foundation for the subsequent implementation of calls for proposals, ensuring that the legislative landscape is fully prepared for the next phase of European defense R&D. Consequently, the 2026 Work Programme now reflects a modernized approach to fostering industrial cooperation and technological sovereignty within the Union. In the following sections, this article explores the specific simplifications introduced for SMEs and research organizations, the expanded role of the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), and the landmark inclusion of Ukraine as an associate partner. Furthermore, it details the thematic structure of the 31 call topics, focusing on critical capabilities such as quantum technology, electronic warfare, and countermeasures against hypersonic threats.