Kaunas University of Technology Faculty of Chemical Technology (KTU CTF) has joined the NATO Defence Technology Accelerator DIANA Test Centre Network. This prestigious partnership allows KTU CTF to test and develop critical defence and security technologies essential for NATO.
DIANA: A Catalyst for Innovation
The Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) embodies NATO’s commitment to fostering the development of cutting-edge defence and security technologies. By promoting collaboration among researchers, startups, businesses, and the manufacturing sector, DIANA strengthens the Alliance’s defence and security capabilities.
“By fostering innovation, the DIANA Accelerator helps to ensure that NATO can effectively respond to emerging and hybrid threats. It also strengthens inter-institutional links by promoting collaborative research and aims to ensure security and stability in the region by leveraging technological superiority,” says CTF Dean Vaida Kitrytė-Syrpa.
Advancing Dual-Purpose Technologies
NATO’s focus through the DIANA Accelerator is on developing dual-use technologies beneficial for both military and civilian applications. These technologies are crucial for addressing various challenges, such as mitigating the humanitarian impacts of climate change, ensuring food security, and advancing data communications and surveillance systems.
“The Faculty conducts a wide range of research in chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, and materials engineering. This broad scope gives us a strong foundation to support both defence and civilian applications,” emphasizes Dean Kitrytė-Syrpa.
Current research areas with significant potential include advanced materials, nanotechnology, biotechnology, environmental, and food safety research.
Enhancing Global Collaboration
Mindaugas Bulota, Head of the KTU National Innovation and Business Centre (KTU NIVC), highlights the University’s extensive experience in developing dual-use and defence technologies. “Joining NATO’s DIANA network not only underscores our efforts but also opens up more international opportunities for our researchers.”
KTU has pioneered initiatives like defence-themed hackathons since 2019, bringing together enthusiasts from diverse ecosystems to innovate collaboratively.
Aligning with Long-Term Goals
As part of the DIANA network of over 200 technology and testing centres across NATO, KTU researchers will now have enhanced opportunities for international collaboration with academic and business partners.
“With the signing of the cooperation agreement, the Faculty of Chemical Technology has become an official NATO DIANA Network Test Centre. This enables us to offer our advanced analytical research base and technology development services within a broader ecosystem,” says Tadas Prasauskas, Vice Dean of KTU CTF.
This partnership aligns with the Faculty’s long-term goals of sharing expertise and developing competences in chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, and materials engineering. The aim is to ensure practical applications of research that meet current and future defence needs.
Contributing to NATO’s Security Goals
A significant objective of NATO DIANA is to commercialize advanced technologies, ensuring that innovative solutions reach both the market and NATO forces.
Highlighting the importance of R&D opportunities, Dean Kitrytė-Syrpa notes that KTU scientists’ contributions to the DIANA network will bolster both national and European security. “Joining the NATO DIANA Test Centre Network will expand our international cooperation, provide new funding opportunities, and increase the impact of our research at both the national and European levels.”
Vice-Dean Prasauskas adds, “With successful collaboration, KTU CTF will encourage its researchers to participate in DIANA-related projects, ensuring a significant contribution to NATO’s defence innovation objectives.”
By becoming a part of the NATO DIANA network, KTU CTF solidifies its role as a leader in developing innovative solutions that enhance the security and stability of the Alliance.
