HMGCC Co-Creation:  Multi-terrain micro robotic systems

Summary Eligibility Dates How to apply Supporting information

Overview

Can you develop a miniature and highly agile uncrewed robotic system capable of operating seamlessly across water, land and air?

This is the latest 10-week, funded challenge launched by HMGCC Co-Creation – now open for applications.

Robotic platforms moving discreetly through complex built environments may need to switch between different routes and modes of travel. For example a robot might travel through water infrastructure, move across ground through confined spaces and then fly to reach a stairwell or elevated area.

We are aiming to fund several ambitious proof-of-concept demonstrations exploring how future robotic systems could combine different types of mobility to access places that conventional uncrewed systems cannot reach.

HMGCC Co-Creation will provide funding for time, materials, overheads and other indirect expenses for successful applicants.

Technology themes Applied research, artificial intelligence, electronic engineering, machine learning, mechanical engineering, robotic and autonomous systems, uncrewed aerial systems.

Key information

Total budget (ex VAT), up to: £60,000 Project duration: 10 weeks Competition opens: Monday 12 October 2026 Competition closes: Thursday 12 November 2026

Context of the challenge

Entering and exiting buildings discreetly to conduct reconnaissance missions is a key requirement for national security and defence organisations. Uncrewed vehicles offer a safer, more discreet alternative to deploying human personnel.

However, buildings often contain complex infrastructure that is difficult to access and navigate, especially for robots limited to a single mode of movement. Ground robots often struggle with vertical obstacles, stairs and gaps. Aerial systems can reach elevated areas but may have limited flight time and are easier to detect. Maritime systems work well in water but cannot easily move into buildings or across dry terrain.

Emerging technologies now make it possible to combine multiple mobility methods into a single robotic platform, opening up access routes that were previously unavailable to uncrewed systems.

Who should apply?

This challenge is open to sole innovators, industry, academic and research organisations of all types and sizes. There is no requirement for security clearances.

Solution providers or direct collaboration from countries listed by the UK government under trade sanctions and/or arms embargoes, are not eligible for HMGCC Co-Creation challenges.

12 Oct

Competition opens

22 Oct

Clarifying questions deadline

29 Oct

Clarifying questions published

12 Nov

Competition closes

23 Nov

Applicants notified

7 Dec

Pitch day

8 Dec

Pitch day outcome

9 Dec

Commercial onboarding begins*

Jan 2027

Target project kick-off

*Please note, the successful solution provider will be expected to have availability for a 1-hour onboarding call via MS Teams on the date and time specified to begin the onboarding/contractual process.

Application process