The Ministry of Defence firmly believes that innovation is a strategic pillar of national security, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas has said, addressing the EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2026.
“Strengthening the connection between defence, research, academia and industry is essential for building resilience, technological excellence and strategic autonomy” he pointed out.
Palmas noted that “through our participation in European initiatives such as the European Defence Fund and EUDIS, we are committed to creating opportunities that enable Cypriot talent and organisations to contribute meaningfully to the European defence innovation ecosystem”.
Referring to the EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2026, he said it is a unique initiative that brings together talented individuals from across Europe to tackle some of the most demanding technological challenges in the field of defence and security.
The Hackathon takes place simultaneously in eight European countries, with Cyprus participating as one of the host nations.
This year’s theme ‘Autonomy on the Battlefield’, the Minister added, “reflects one of the most important technological transformations of our time. Rapid advances in autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, robotics and unmanned platforms are reshaping the security environment and creating new opportunities, as well as new challenges, for nations and armed forces around the world”.
Palmas said that what makes this event particularly valuable is not only the competition itself, but the spirit of collaboration that it promotes.
“Innovation thrives when people with different skills, experiences and perspectives come together to solve complex problems. Today, researchers, engineers, students, entrepreneurs, defence experts and industry representatives are gathered in one place with a common purpose: to create solutions that can shape the future” he continued.
He expressed satisfaction with the strong participation of young scientists, engineers and innovators and told participants that “your ideas, your creativity and your determination are among our most valuable strategic resources”.
“The challenges you will address during this Hackathon may well become the foundations of future technologies and capabilities” he concluded.