Press Release / 30 April 2025

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Tallinn, Estonia – The Estonian Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with the Estonian Business School (EBS), is pleased to announce the Defence AI Hackathon 2025. This high-impact event will take place from June 12 to June 15, 2025, at the Estonian Business School campus. 

Defence AI Hackathon 2025: Innovating for National Security and Defence Capabilities

 

The Defence AI Hackathon brings together leading experts, researchers, entrepreneurs, students, and professionals from the defence and technology sectors. Participants will develop cutting-edge artificial intelligence solutions to enhance Estonia's and NATO's defence capabilities. The event is structured as a dynamic 72-hour innovation sprint, fostering collaboration and creativity in addressing real-world defence challenges.

 

Mikk Raud, Deputy Director of Innovation Department at the Ministry of Defence emphasized, "Advancing artificial intelligence capabilities is critical for Estonia's defence and security. The Defence AI Hackathon 2025 is a vital platform to accelerate innovation, harness emerging technologies, and ensure our national readiness against evolving hybrid threats. We strongly support collaborative initiatives that enhance Estonia's resilience and NATO's collective defence, especially when doing so by including the younger population interested in contributing to our security."

 

Head of Research, Development & Innovation at EBS, Andreas Veispak, added, "The Defence AI Hackathon 2025 represents a unique convergence of stakeholders from academia, industry, and defence expertise, reflecting EBS's commitment to fostering innovation that addresses real-world challenges. We are proud to facilitate an environment where creative minds can collaborate, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to Estonia's national security and technological leadership."

 

The hackathon offers participants expert mentorship from industry leaders, valuable networking opportunities, hands-on experience with emerging technologies, and attractive prizes to support further development and implementation of winning ideas. 

 

Participation is free and open to anyone aged 18 or older with an interest in technology and defence innovation. Registrations are open until May 12, 2025.

 

For more information and to register, please visit website