This funding call aims to boost the development of the next generation of infrared (IR) detectors by advancing key components and systems critical for defence applications. The call focuses on the improvement of optronic detectors by targeting the development of advanced Read-Out Integrated Circuits (ROICs) for IR detectors, which are fundamental in increasing detection, recognition, and identification ranges in diverse environments. The overall objective is to enhance the global efficiency of defence systems by ensuring that future IR detectors not only meet the high performance requirements but also maintain international competitiveness while reducing dependency on non-EU supply chains.

The call emphasizes the importance of integrating both the Photon Detector Array (PDA) and the silicon-based ROIC to form a Hybrid Focal Plane Array (HFPA), which is at the heart of modern IR detection systems. In doing so, it addresses challenges identified as early as 2019 regarding the gaps in advanced ROIC technology at the EU level. Building on previous initiatives, such as the call topic EDF-2021-SENS-R-IRD, the present opportunity invites EU IR detector providers to collaborate in qualifying an advanced complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) node. This technology is expected to facilitate the design of ultra-small pitch ROICs that are compatible with both 2D and emerging 3D architectures.

A significant component of this call is the emphasis on collaboration. The proposals must be submitted by a consortium of leading EU IR detector providers, thereby sharing the high costs associated with accessing advanced CMOS nodes available on 12’’/300mm silicon foundries. Such a cooperative approach is not only vital for meeting the high budget requirements but also for fostering a secure and resilient supply chain within the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB). The call requires that the proposals cover a comprehensive range of activities including design, system prototyping, testing, and even qualification of defence products. Specific tasks involve ROIC design optimization, increasing the maturity of ROIC bumping at fine pixel pitches, and addressing the challenges associated with high resolution and high data rate tests.

In addition to the core tasks, the call encourages exploration of innovative 3D stacking architectures. The integration of these advanced technologies is expected to lead to enhanced performance of the IR detectors through the development of integrated demonstrators that showcase the viability of the new designs. The proposals are required to include an assessment phase where a first evaluation of the demonstrator’s performance is conducted, ensuring that the new ROICs can meet stringent operational requirements. Moreover, the funding call underscores the importance of risk reduction through partial and final tests, which include both electrical and electro-optical performance validations.

Overall, the intended outcome is to significantly strengthen the security of supply for advanced ROIC technology, improve the overall performance of IR detectors used by EU armed forces, and enhance the competitiveness of the EU defence sector. The call is designed to support technological advancements that will improve situational awareness and decision-making capabilities by leveraging improved sensor performance.

Opening: 18.02.2025
Deadline(s): 16.10.2025