EUROPEAN DEFENCE FUND
ECOBALLIFE is a comprehensive and multidisciplinary European defence initiative that brings together material scientists, engineers, technologists and defence-sector experts to advance the next generation of eco-designed ballistic protection systems. The project fosters cross-sector collaboration across fields such as advanced materials, composite engineering, environmental sciences, defence technology, manufacturing innovation and policy analysis, with the shared ambition of understanding and addressing the growing complexity of modern ballistic threats while reducing the environmental impact of protective systems. ECOBALLIFE seeks to explore how novel ceramic–polymer composites, lightweight hybrid structures, sustainable processing methods and circular-design principles can transform both personnel and platform protection in Europe. Our core inquiry revolves around critical questions such as: How can eco-engineering and advanced material science redefine ballistic performance while significantly reducing weight? How can Europe transition towards recyclable or re-processable protection systems without compromising safety? And how can defence technologies evolve to ensure operational superiority while meeting the environmental and regulatory expectations of the future? Through this project, we aim not only to deepen scientific understanding of next-generation protection materials but also to generate actionable, high-value solutions that reinforce European strategic autonomy, enhance soldier and vehicle survivability, and promote a more sustainable and technologically sovereign defence industry.