Kista Science City launches a unique pilot project together with the Swedish Armed Forces’ Cyber Defence to strengthen Sweden’s digital resilience. Through a targeted challenge, they are now seeking startups and technology companies that can automate the mapping of complex IT systems to support national defence.
Sweden’s digital infrastructure is tested every day. In an elevated security situation, relying solely on traditional procurement processes is no longer sufficient. Staying ahead requires access to breakthrough technologies developed in the civilian sector.
In a new collaboration with Kista Science City, the Armed Forces’ Cyber Defence is breaking new ground by inviting smaller, fast-moving technology companies to contribute directly to national security. The goal is to build a modern bridge between military needs and civilian solutions. Rather than developing everything inside government walls, the initiative aims to leverage the innovative power of startups and companies working in cybersecurity.
“We have long experience working side by side with the most advanced deep-tech companies in Sweden. That allows us to identify potential where others only see complexity. Through this initiative we open the door for civilian innovators to contribute directly to the country’s cyber defence, and we do it with a speed and precision that traditional processes simply cannot match. It is precisely in these kinds of interfaces that Kista Science City has its strength,” says Sakarias Strand, program manager for cybersecurity and defence at Kista Science City.
At the core of the collaboration is a challenge called “Analysis of system defensibility.” The Armed Forces’ Cyber Defence is looking for tools capable of performing a “digital terrain analysis,” meaning automated mapping of complex networks. By charting a system’s characteristics, it becomes possible to plan and prioritise defensive measures more effectively.
A strong defence of Sweden and our allies in the cyber domain requires that we continuously keep pace with technological development. Collaborating with civilian innovators and understanding the digital terrain is a strategic necessity for building the cyber defence of the future,” says Colonel Thomas Höglund, head of the Armed Forces’ Cyber Defence.
The challenge targets technology companies and startups with deep expertise in cybersecurity and network analysis. The application period runs until 20 March 2026, after which a selection process will identify the most promising solutions. Chosen companies will be invited to tailored matchmaking meetings and demo days in Stockholm during spring 2026. The aim is to identify solutions that can progress to paid pilot projects and long-term collaborations.
About Kista Science City
Kista Science City AB is an arena that accelerates open innovation, business development and the commercialization of research. The organisation focuses on areas including cybersecurity, defence technology, semiconductors and space technology. Kista Science City creates favourable conditions for effective collaboration between industry, academia, research institutes and public actors. Kista Science City AB is owned by the Electrum Foundation.