The Complex Weapons Innovation and Technology Partnership (CW ITP) is running its first call for proposals of 2026, looking to fund low Technology-Readiness level [TRL] research that shows the potential for exploitation in generation-after-next complex weapons.

The CW ITP was created to develop novel, exploitable technologies to solve the capability challenges for future Anglo-French Complex Weapons. Over the years CW ITP has funded some truly innovative projects that have pushed the boundaries of the partnerships’ Enduring Technical Areas.

Example projects include: 
• LASDARA; which aims to improve the safety of mini-missile launchers. 
• MTILIR: a project enhancing seeker radome resistance to rain erosion, and 
• MIME: developing 3D-MiD manufacturing enabling electrical functionality in complex conformal spaces..

CW ITP is underpinned by funding from the UK's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and France's Direction générale de l'armement (DGA). As in previous years, the funding for projects will once again go to a range of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), technology start-ups, research facilities and academia, as well as larger organisations in the UK and France. Proposals are welcomed both from inside and outside the defence sector.

The deadline for submission of proposals is the end of May 2026. Selected projects must be ready to start in September 2026 with initial funding for up to 24 months. 

You can find out more about the CW ITP, or to share details of how funding can be accessed, visit the CW ITP website.