Geo-intelligence (GEOINT) is at the heart of modern armed forces, but the impact of this technology extends far beyond that. By combining data from satellites, drones, radar, and open sources with artificial intelligence, near-real-time situational awareness and information superiority are created for defence, security services, and crisis response. Numerous applications in emergency response and civil support draw on these same capabilities, allowing intervention and security services to operate more efficiently, rapidly, and precisely. Flanders’ capabilities in AI, remote sensing, data fusion, and high-tech production give it the potential to play a key strategic role in the European security architecture.

In the coming years, substantial investments will be made in intelligence, cyber capabilities, and influence, with a particular focus on space intelligence, drones, data infrastructure, and AI platforms. At the European level, the EU Space Strategy for Security & Defence recognises space as a security domain and promotes the IRIS² programme for secure communication and strategic autonomy. NATO considers GEOINT a ‘critical enabler’ for multi-domain operations and invests in innovation through DIANA and the NATO Innovation Fund.

Flanders stands out thanks to its strong downstream profile: A total of 138 companies are active in geo-intelligence, with 66 already participating in European or NATO programmes. Flemish strategic research centres cover the full chain from sensor development to analysis and validation, often within living labs in port, coastal, urban, and industrial contexts. Close collaboration between research, industry and end users accelerates innovation and adoption.

• Multisensor fusion: Integration of various data streams into a single reliable operational picture.
• Edge intelligence: Autonomous, energy-efficient AI models for rapid detection and decision making at the source.
• Secure geodata infrastructure: Cyber-resilient, sovereign networks for data integrity and continuity.
• Decision-making platforms and digital twins: Advanced visualisation and analysis tools for interoperability with NATO and EU systems.

With this roadmap, Flanders aims to pursue a triple-helix collaboration, turning its technological edge into operational added value, economic growth, and a strong position within the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB).