Optimal Defence is a Portuguese company dedicated to the research, development, and production of advanced defence technologies. Founded with the mission to reindustrialize Portugal’s defence sector, Optimal Defence operates across a wide range of strategic capabilities, including smart ammunition manufacturing, autonomous land and maritime platforms, CBRNe (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) protection systems, and AI-enabled command and control solutions.
The company is fully licensed under the European Union’s Common Military List and NATO standards, with certifications across categories such as ML3 (Ammunition), ML4 (Missiles and Explosives), ML7 (CBRN Agents), ML10 (Unmanned Platforms), and ML21 (Military Software and Technology). It has achieved significant milestones including energetic materials licensing, NATO Stock Number assignment, and active participation in European Defence Agency and NATO NIAG studies on munition interoperability and counter-threat technologies.
Optimal Defence promotes dual-use innovation, working in close collaboration with academia, industry, and government stakeholders to ensure technological sovereignty, operational readiness, and the development of sustainable, next-generation defence solutions. Its projects span from fully automated ammunition loading systems (LOAD), polymer-injected munitions (AMMO), and the LUSITAN anti-tank missile, to UAVs equipped with advanced sensors, and software for battlefield situational awareness.
With a strong presence in NATO and EU research initiatives and a clear vision for European strategic autonomy, Optimal Defence stands as a trusted partner in the future of defence innovation.
Filipe Duarte is a Naval Architect and Marine Engineer, and the CEO of Optimal Defence, a Portuguese company focused on innovative defence solutions, including ammunition, autonomous systems, and CBRNe protection. He holds a BSc and MSc in Marine Engineering and Naval Architecture from Instituto Superior Técnico, and has complemented his education at AESE Business School and Catholic University. Advanced management and defence-related programs in Portugal and within NATO. Filipe has led multiple defence projects, including STANAG developments and CBRN sensor integration in unmanned systems. With over 20 years of experience in engineering, defence, and maritime industries, he is a strong advocate for European strategic autonomy and technological resilience.