Innovation Mission to the United Kingdom

Dual-Use Technologies for Intelligent Systems and Sensors

16–19 March 2026 | London, United Kingdom

PhotonDelta supports the Innovation Mission to the United Kingdom, taking place from 16 to 19 March 2026, focused on dual-use technologies for intelligent systems and sensors. The mission brings together Dutch and British organisations active in advanced technologies relevant to defence and security challenges.

This mission is particularly relevant for organisations working in artificial intelligence, integrated photonics, quantum technologies, and robotics, and those exploring opportunities for research collaboration and market development in the UK.

About the Mission

The demand for secure, fast, and sustainable autonomous systems, as well as the ability to detect, monitor, and counter such systems, is increasing rapidly. Both the Netherlands and the United Kingdom recognise innovation as essential to addressing current and future defence challenges and are investing heavily in this domain.

Dual-use technologies, including AI, quantum, integrated photonics, and robotics, play a key role in strengthening resilience and security. These technologies support the development of applications such as advanced sensors, intelligent systems, drones, and autonomous platforms, while enabling faster innovation cycles and cross-sector impact.
This innovation mission connects Dutch and British technology providers, knowledge institutions, and defence stakeholders. The goal is to stimulate knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the joint development of solutions addressing pressing challenges in the defence domain.

Why Participate?

The United Kingdom offers a strong and accessible defence innovation ecosystem, with close collaboration between industry, research organisations, investors, and public authorities. Participation provides insight into how this ecosystem operates and where technological solutions can create value.

Participants will benefit from:

• Insight into the UK defence innovation network, strategic priorities, and decision-making processes
• Greater clarity on current defence needs and related technological opportunities
• Exploration of joint R&D and collaboration projects
• New connections with UK companies, research institutes, and public organisations
• Enhanced visibility and positioning within the UK defence and innovation landscape

Programme

The innovation mission will:
Start: Monday 16 March 2026, around 18:00
End: Thursday 19 March 2026, shortly after lunch
The programme will be tailored as much as possible to the interests and profiles of participants, with a focus on meaningful interaction and practical outcomes.
More details on the concept programme are available on the event website.

Who Can Participate?

This mission is intended for Dutch organisations and researchers who:

• Are active in AI, integrated photonics, quantum technology, or robotics
• Develop solutions relevant to urgent challenges in the defence domain
• Seek to explore collaboration or market opportunities within the UK defence ecosystem
• Participation is open both to organisations with existing defence collaborations and to those looking to enter the defence innovation network.
  

Registration & Costs

Registration is open until Thursday 15 January 2026.
Participation fee: €250 per person (excluding VAT)
Included:
Participation in the programme
Local transfers to programme activities
Lunches and dinners when included in the official programme
Excluded:
Travel and accommodation costs
Individual expenses outside the programme

More Information

For questions about this innovation mission, please contact:
innovatiemissies@rvo.nl