Nokia has been chosen to lead PROACTIF, a major European Union initiative focused on advancing robotics and unmanned technologies across the continent.
Backed by the EU’s Chips Joint Undertaking, the multimillion euro project is designed to boost Europe’s resilience and competitiveness in electronic components and systems while accelerating the strategic autonomy of its drone and robotics sectors.
As the lead coordinator, Nokia will drive innovation in unmanned vehicle technologies that address critical civil security challenges including infrastructure monitoring and emergency response.
PROACTIF unites 42 partners and four affiliated organizations from 13 European countries, creating a powerful collaborative framework that spans academia, small and medium enterprises, and major industry players. The consortium is set to deliver five unmanned vehicle platforms built on nine advanced technology building blocks, prioritizing autonomy, interoperability, rapid deployment and cybersecure operation. These platforms will be designed for eco-efficient, safe and cost-effective performance, with a strong focus on providing actionable situational awareness during crises through continuous sensor data acquisition.
Thomas Eder, Head of Embedded Wireless Solutions at Nokia, said, “Nokia’s extensive expertise has helped establish drone technology best practices and transform drones into daily helpers for public safety and mission-critical operations. We are honored to lead this project. It demonstrates Nokia’s commitment to fostering innovation and resilience across Europe. By collaborating with leading organizations, this initiative will address critical challenges in security and sustainability, delivering real-world benefits for society.”
By 2035, the initiative aims to generate approximately €90 million in revenue, introduce 50 new products, and secure over 15 industry patents. The project is also expected to drive significant secondary benefits, including the creation of hundreds of new jobs, dozens of cross-border collaborations and more than €40 million in additional private investment. With its scale, ambition and emphasis on integrated unmanned systems, PROACTIF represents a landmark step forward in the development of Europe’s sovereign robotics and UxV capabilities.
