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DualTech Challenge 2025

The DualTech Challenge

The Challenge is returning for its first in-person iteration at UDT. This is created in collaboration with the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI).  

They have identified a challenge that calls for individuals and teams to showcase their solutions beyond the realms of undersea defence technology, to address real-world issues faced by today's end-users.

Are you ready to revolutionise the field of undersea defence?

Submit your proposals for a unique opportunity to present your innovative technology to a distinguished audience of thought leaders and undersea experts.

Submit entry now

 

DTChallenge

Challenge area

Underwater communication and surveillance – can we do better?

Underwater communication is a critical technology for many military applications where cables cannot be used. This is also an area of significant interest to the offshore oil & gas and service industry. The desire to communicate reliably over significant distances undersea, preferably with high bandwidth and for military applications also with low signature, poses a substantial technological challenge. Still, such technology will be required for the full integration of unmanned and partially autonomous undersea vehicles and systems with manned platforms. For many applications, AUVs cannot operate fully autonomously.

Similarly, underwater acoustic sensing technology represents a field with potential for dual use. Technologies and systems already in use for civilian applications may be adapted and used for military applications.

Official collaborators

Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI)

The Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) is the research institute of the Norwegian defence sector and the primary implement by which the defence sector benefits from fast-paced scientific and technological development. Through research, development and continuous innovation FFI contributes to an effective, interoperable, and relevant defence that is well-prepared for the future.

Innovation Norway

Innovation Norway is a state-owned company and a national development bank that supports entrepreneurship, commercialization, growth and internationalization. It helps Norwegian companies grow sustainably and increase exports by providing access to competence, capital, and networks. Formed in 2004, it has offices in 30 countries.

The Reward

Each finalist will receive: 

  • Speaking opportunity at the DualTech Theatre and opportunity to demonstrate physical products. 

  • Full Speaker registration (including access to the exhibition, main conference and catering) 

  • Prolonged exposure on the event website 

  • Profile in DualTech Challenge literature/website and DualTech agenda 

  • Associated promotion on social media channels 

The UDT community is invited to watch the Challenge live from the DualTech Theatre hosted by FFI and Innovation Norway.

The Grand Prize

The DualTech Challenge winner will receive commendation and a complimentary 9sqm for your stand at UDT 2026. 

presentation at udt dualtech

Entry and Judging Criteria

Submitted technologies can either be existing products not currently utilised in the Defence market or new innovative disruptive technologies addressing the challenge outlined. 

All entrants must be eligible to attend UDT in person on the 26th of March 2025. Due to security restrictions at the exhibition, entrants must be 18 years or older and successfully pass security checks during event registration. 

Submissions will be judged by the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) and Innovation Norway. All submissions will provided to the judging panel anonymously by the UDT conference production team to prevent bias. 

All participants must comply with the Official Rules and abide by decisions made by the Host and Judges.

Key dates and timelines 2025

20th January  Submissions open 
17th February  Submissions close (23:59 GMT) 
21st February  Finalists selected and contacted 
26th March  Live presentations & announcement of the winner 

 







 

Interested in applying?

Ready to sign up for the DualTech Challenge at UDT 2025? Sign up now!

DualTech - Sign Up Now

 

  • Join us as an attendee

    Ready to meet your target market? Register now to join us as an attendee for UDT 2025.

  • Join us as an Exhibitor/Sponsor

    As an exhibitor, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with leaders and influencers in the undersea defence. Make a stand enquiry.