NATO DIANA selects 15 innovators. Among them Kelluu’s autonomous airships and Poland’s IS Wireless

NATO has announced the 15 companies advancing to Phase Two of the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA). Selected from more than 2,600 applications, these innovators represent the cutting edge of dual-use technologies with direct relevance to defense, security, and resilience.

Kamil Kusier executive editor 12.09.2025, 15:33 Reading time: 2 min

White and blue airship flies low over the treetops of a coniferous forest — fot. Kelluu

In brief

Fifteen companies have advanced to the second phase of the NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic programme, selected from more than 2,600 applications. Among the selected firms are Poland's IS Wireless, which develops 5G and 6G networks, and Finland's Kelluu, which builds autonomous airships capable of staying airborne for more than 12 hours. Companies qualified for the second phase of DIANA receive 300 thousand euros in non-repayable funding, access to NATO test centres and expert support. Companies from ten NATO countries take part in the second stage.

Autonomous airships redefining ISR

From Finland, Kelluu brings a novel approach to uncrewed aerial systems. Instead of deploying conventional drones or balloons, the company operates autonomous airships – multi-sensor, software-defined platforms capable of staying airborne for more than 12 hours.

Flying below cloud level, with minimal noise and emissions, the airships can carry modular payloads and adapt to a wide range of missions. This enables the creation of a quiet, persistent ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) layer that complements satellites and short-range drones. Use cases range from critical infrastructure protection to expeditionary operations and environmental monitoring.

Polish telecom expertise in the spotlight

Poland’s IS Wireless is also among the selected companies. Specializing in advanced telecommunications systems, including 5G and next-generation 6G solutions, IS Wireless develops technologies that enhance resilient communications for defense applications. Its participation highlights the growing role of secure, adaptive connectivity in modern military operations.

DIANA – NATO’s innovation accelerator

DIANA is NATO’s flagship innovation program, designed to accelerate adoption of dual-use technologies with potential to transform defense and security across the Alliance. Companies progressing to Phase Two receive €300,000 in non-dilutive funding, access to NATO test centers, tailored expert support, and direct engagement with end users.

A transatlantic cohort of innovators

The 15 companies come from ten NATO member states and span domains including cybersecurity, biotechnology, robotics, autonomous systems, space, and maritime defense.

The full list of DIANA Phase Two innovators: