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News • July 21st, 2026
|A Yorkshire-based defence engineering firm, Slipstream Design, has recently made headlines by gaining international recognition through NATO's Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA). This innovative programme aims to identify and support emerging technologies that can be used for defence across NATO member countries. Slipstream Design was chosen from over 3,200 applicants and is one of only 28 companies from the UK to participate in this prestigious initiative.
What Is NATO DIANA?
NATO DIANA is designed to help new and creative technologies find their way into defence applications, which can be crucial for the safety and security of Allied nations. This six-month programme has provided selected companies the chance to develop their technologies while gaining insight into the defence procurement process. For Slipstream, this meant focusing on their ASTRO™ wideband adaptive radio platform, a cutting-edge tool that can significantly enhance communication capabilities in military settings.
About the ASTRO™ Platform
Launched in 2024, the ASTRO™ platform has impressive features that allow it to send and receive radio signals across a wide range of frequencies. This adaptability is especially important in environments where many signals are competing for space, which can often happen in military operations. The ability to reprogram the radio in the field means that soldiers can adjust their communication tools to fit their immediate needs, ensuring that they remain effective no matter the situation.
Key Achievements and Feedback
During its time in the DIANA programme, Slipstream had the opportunity to test the ASTRO™ platform in real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience allowed the team to gather valuable feedback from end-users, which has helped shorten the time it takes to validate their product. “Over the last six months, we’ve had opportunities to test ASTRO™ in the field and receive real-time updates from end-users, which has accelerated product validation by years,” said Sarah Gregory, the Commercial Director at Slipstream.
Significant Contracts and Future Prospects
The participation in the DIANA programme has not only helped Slipstream refine its technology but has also led to securing two major contracts worth a total of £1.5 million. This financial boost is expected to accelerate the development of their products and services further. Sarah Gregory expressed pride in the team's achievements, stating, “I am hugely proud of our team, who are working at the edge of what’s possible technically, so that we can do our part to keep societies safe.”
Impact on the Defence Sector
As technology continues to evolve, the future of defence will largely depend on how quickly innovative solutions can be integrated into operational use. Slipstream's experience in the NATO DIANA programme has provided them with critical insights into the defence sector, helping them align their products with the needs of the military. By connecting with other professionals in the field, the Slipstream team has gained invaluable feedback that will help them innovate more rapidly.
About Slipstream Design
Founded in 2011, Slipstream Design has established itself as a leading player in the field of digital and microwave radio frequency design. Based in Shipley, the company has become the development partner of choice for many top communication, aerospace, and security firms around the world. Their expertise in adaptable digital radio frequency design positions them at the forefront of technological advancements in defence communications.
With the successful completion of the NATO DIANA programme, Slipstream Design has not only validated its innovative technology but also strengthened its international position in the defence sector. This accomplishment highlights the importance of supporting emerging technologies and the role they play in ensuring the safety and security of nations. As the world evolves, the contributions of companies like Slipstream will be vital in shaping the future of defence technology.
