• HORIZON-MISS-2026-03-OCEAN-05: Regional (sea-basins) components of the EU Digital Twin Ocean

We are in the preperation/ideation phase for a project proposal for HORIZON-MISS-2026-03-OCEAN-05.

We have 6 drones and 1 buoy all on the shores of Türkiye/Romania and Georgia callecting real time data on 5 parameters. Additionally, We will also have blackboxes (sensors) attached to the commercial ships that will gather real time data from Blacksea off-shore  (a contracted investment that will be finished in 8 months)

We have built:

1. A Joint Data Center across Romania, Türkiye and Georgia;

2. A Joint Data Dashboard

3. Environmental Forecasting Methodology through AI Algorithm and Modeling

MEXT already addresses several core components required by the call, including continuous environmental monitoring through multisensor buoys and autonomous surface vehicles, AI-based forecasting and predictive modelling, and a joint data centre with integrated dashboards that support real-time decision-making processes. In addition, the we ensure data standardisation and sharing through EMODnet, making regional data accessible and interoperable. Through these capabilities, MEXT already contributes to data aggregation, modelling, and decision-support functionalities.

Building on this foundation, the proposed project will extend these capacities by developing a Black Sea Regional Digital Twin component integrated into the EDITO Digital Twin of the Ocean, introducing structured what-if scenario libraries, advancing land-sea interaction models, and scaling stakeholder co-creation processes for wider regional uptake.

We are looking for partners:

Digital Twin & Modelling Partners

Role: Build the regional digital twin layer, integrate existing BS-SEOS data, develop what-if scenario libraries.

Environmental / River Basin Partners

Role: Support land-sea interaction models and riverine impact assessments.

Policy & Decision-Support Partners

Role: Ensure digital twin outputs are policy-relevant, support blue economy applications.

Data Infrastructure & Standards Partners

Role: Maintain interoperability and compliance with EDITO and EMODnet standards.

Stakeholder Engagement / Citizen Science Partners

Role: Implement co-creation labs and integrate local knowledge.

• Türkiye: Western & Northern Black Sea coast

• Romania & Bulgaria: Danube delta + coastal areas

• Georgia & Ukraine: Eastern Black Sea coast, including riverine inputs (Dnieper, Dniester, etc.)

Ideally, each sub-region has at least one strong academic/research partner, one river/environment partner, and one stakeholder engagement partner