The NATO North Atlantic Defense Innovation Accelerator (DIANA) has published new challenges targeting mature artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) capabilities. The call, titled “Decision Superiority for NATO Warfighters,” focuses on integrating advanced analytics, sensor fusion, and space-based intelligence into NATO’s existing digital command platform.
Unlike the typical accelerator track, which accepts early-stage prototypes, this challenge specifically requires solutions at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 or higher. NATO wants off-the-shelf software that can instantly move military planning away from “linear processes, manual workflows, and processes constrained by dynamically updating or unresponsive data.”
A core requirement for prospective applicants is interoperability with Maven Smart System NATO (MSS NATO). Currently utilized by Supreme Allied Command Europe (SHAPE), MSS NATO serves as an AI-enabled digital warfare platform. Ingest diverse, multidomain data to create a real-time, geospatially-contextualized operational picture. Rather than requiring standalone software, DIANA is asking the industry to provide advanced “plug-in” functionality that builds on this existing open architecture.
For the space and defense sector, this challenge highlights the increased operational dependence on commercial space assets to manage complex multi-domain environments. DIANA provides “satellite imagery, radar data, full-motion video, [and] Signal data. ”
NATO aims to reduce the cognitive burden on commanders by applying computer vision, anomaly detection, and multi-source fusion to these feeds. The goal is for AI to cross-reference trajectory data with commercial tracking and open-source intelligence to quickly identify threats. For example, the vessel responsible for cutting an undersea cable can be identified by correlating its movements with satellite imagery.
According to the challenge document, successful integration will “enhance or enhance operational planning and execution by integrating AI/ML models and innovative software solutions into existing digital platforms, increasing analytical depth, dynamism, and accelerating decision-making in time-sensitive operational environments.”
Beyond ISR fusion, NATO is also seeking capabilities for AI-driven wargaming, natural language decision support interfaces, and automatic target identification. Solutions selected through this challenge will directly support the Alliance’s continued efforts to achieve true multi-domain integration across air, land, sea, space and cyber operations.
The application period ends on May 5, 2026.
