MatCap: Capacity building within materials for the defense of the future - BioCap: Biomanufacturing and future bio-based defense capacity
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BioCap establishes the foundation for a national capacity within biomanufacturing close to the area of application (Forward-Deployed Biomanufacturing – FDBM). The project investigates how biological production systems can deliver critical supplies and high-performance specialty materials directly to operational defense environments.
The challenge: Logistical bottlenecks in isolated and extreme environments
Military operations are deeply dependent on a continuous supply of specialty chemicals, fuels, medical countermeasures, and protective barrier materials. In forward-deployed, isolated, or exposed operational areas, traditional resupply may be impossible or associated with unacceptable risks.
Biomanufacturing - production using biological systems, biotechnological processes, and engineered microorganisms - holds the potential to decentrally produce necessary substances locally from locally available raw materials. However, the technology is predominantly laboratory-based and lacks maturation regarding military requirements for mobility, robustness, and operational reliability.
The solution: Forward-deployed biological production (FDBM)
BioCap brings together Denmark's leading biotechnology research environments to clarify and mature biomanufacturing specifically for defense needs. The project serves as a preparatory phase for larger national and international initiatives:
- Competency mapping: Systematic identification of Danish positions of strength within synthetic biology, fermentation, and downstream processing of defense-technological relevance.
- Selection of FDBM demonstrators: Identification and technological maturation of solutions with the potential for rapid proof-of-concept (e.g., on-demand manufacturing of specialty binders, biomaterials, or surface protection).
- Strategic roadmap: Preparation of a national roadmap for forward-deployed biomanufacturing, anchored in NATO-STO and European collaborations.
Expected results and impact
- National task force and roadmap: A coordinated strategy for Danish biomanufacturing for defense applications, prepared by DTI and DTU.
- Matured demonstrators: Selection of tangible demonstrators showcasing the method's potential for decentralized supply.
- Strategic NATO connection: Direct integration with agendas in NATO-STO, DENWERX, and the EU.
- Funding foundation: Establishment of a basis for further funding through the European Defence Agency (EDA), EDF, or national funds.
Contact us
Would you like to know more about biomanufacturing for defense or contribute to the national competency mapping? Contact Senior Specialist Nikola Medic at nmed@teknologisk.dk // tel.: +45 72 20 22 52 or Innovation Director Anne Christine Steenkjær Hastrup at acha@teknologisk.dk // tel.: +45 72 20 16 02.