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Finnish Startup SEATOM Chosen for NATO's Accelerator Program

In an exciting development for maritime nuclear technology, the Finnish startup SEATOM has been selected for NATO's Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) 2026 Challenge Programme. This initiative focuses on innovative solutions for extreme environments, making it especially pertinent given today's defense challenges.

SEATOM's Modular Micro Nuclear Reactor System

SEATOM's proposal features a modular micro nuclear reactor system designed for affordability and efficiency, especially in severe marine conditions and other challenging environments. The company's vision aligns with the increasing need for robust defense mechanisms capable of operating in hostile terrains, particularly in areas like the Arctic.

Co-founder and co-CEO Roope Marttila has expressed optimism about this milestone, highlighting that there has never been a better time for nuclear technology. He pointed out that shifting national and international regulations, along with evolving public perceptions, are favoring nuclear solutions in maritime applications over other options.

Benefits of Joining DIANA

As part of the six-month DIANA Core Programme, SEATOM will collaborate with the DualTech Accelerator located in Turin, Italy. This partnership will give SEATOM access to an extensive network of field experts, mentors, and testing facilities across NATO's 32 member nations. This collaboration also opens doors to world-class testing infrastructure and military market insights, enabling SEATOM to tailor solutions to fulfill specific defense requirements.

The initial funding awarded to SEATOM stands at €100,000, which can be supplemented by additional financial support aimed at testing, evaluation, validation, and verification activities. This funding enables the startup to participate in operational experiments alongside NATO forces, allowing them to rigorously validate their technologies in real-world scenarios.

Strengthening Technological Readiness

By joining the DIANA program, SEATOM aims to enhance its technological maturity. This step not only strengthens their dual-use technology offerings but also positions them to contribute effectively to critical defense and security needs. The accelerator program is designed to serve as a launchpad for emerging tech companies like SEATOM, thereby fostering innovation that directly supports defense strategies.

The exciting launch of the program is scheduled for January 19, 2026, culminating in an International Demo Day in Paris by June 2026. Here, SEATOM will showcase its advancements alongside other innovative firms committed to pioneering solutions for modern defense challenges.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, SEATOM's work under the DIANA program promises to push the boundaries of nuclear propulsion technology in maritime contexts. As they work alongside NATO, the potential for meaningful advancements in this field is substantial. This opportunity illustrates the growing intersection of technology, defense, and sustainability, especially in the face of a changing global landscape.

For more details on the 2026 NATO DIANA cohort, interested parties can visit the official NATO DIANA website.

In conclusion, the inclusion of SEATOM in this prestigious NATO program marks a significant step forward in advancing nuclear technology for both civilian and military applications, setting the stage for innovations that will benefit defense strategies for years to come.