Athens, 17 March 2026:
NCSR Demokritos and Lockheed Martin, a global defense technology company, have announced a collaboration to support research and the development of innovative dual-use technologies in Greece.
The partnership was announced at the NCSR Demokritos facilities, in the presence of the Centre’s Director, Vangelis Karkaletsis, representatives of the Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation (HCDI), and the Regional Executive Director of Lockheed Martin Greece, Kostas Papadopoulos.
As part of the collaboration, a Proof of Concept (PoC) program will be implemented to support selected researchers and research teams in advancing promising technologies and strengthening their readiness to enter the Greek market. The program will focus on innovative dual-use and pre-commercial technologies, supporting solutions with applications in both the civilian and security sectors, and will align primarily with HCDI priorities.
The initiative aims to prepare researchers for future participation in major European and transatlantic programs, including the European Defence Fund (EDF), the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), and the European Innovation Council (EIC). More broadly, the collaboration seeks to strengthen ties between the research community, industry, Greek SMEs, and potential end users.
“The collaboration with Lockheed Martin creates new opportunities for the Center’s researchers, facilitating the transfer of scientific knowledge into applications with tangible economic and social value. The PoC program establishes a solid framework for transforming research outputs into practical technological solutions,” said Vangelis Karkaletsis.
Kostas Papadopoulos, noted that “investing in research and technological advancement is the foundation for long-term growth and security,” highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting Greece’s scientific community and advancing innovative technologies with wide-ranging applications.
NCSR Demokritos conducts research in areas with direct application in defense and dual-use technologies, including artificial intelligence, advanced materials, sensor systems, and digital infrastructures used in crisis management and operational coordination scenarios. It is one of 17 selected accelerators in the NATO DIANA innovation ecosystem and participates in the activities of the Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation (HCDI), strengthening collaboration between the research community, industry, and public bodies to develop operational solutions for security and defense.
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and scientific discovery. Their all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those they serve are always ahead-ready. Lockheed Martin remains committed to advancing innovation, building high-value strategic partnerships, and supporting initiatives that strengthen technological progress and resilience.