The comparative advantage of modern defence platforms lies in their survivability, stealth performance and resilience against increasingly complex electromagnetic (EM) threats. In an era where warfare is highly dependent on electronic systems, maintaining low observability and electromagnetic compatibility has become a critical operational requirement.

However, operational environments characterized by dense radar coverage, multi-band sensing systems and advanced electronic warfare capabilities significantly increase the risk of detection and system disruption.

For defence platforms operating in such contested EM environments, traditional approaches based on surface coatings or add-on shielding layers are often insufficient, particularly when weight, durability and multi-functionality are critical constraints.

The ABBOT project aims to address these challenges by developing an innovative class of multifunctional structural composites that inherently combine radar-absorbing (RAM) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capabilities directly within lightweight load-bearing structures.

Unlike conventional solutions, ABBOT integrates EM functionality into the material architecture itself, enabling both reduced radar cross-section (RCS) and enhanced protection against EM interference without compromising structural integrity.

Through a multi-tiered approach combining material design, computational optimization and experimental validation, ABBOT aims to deliver adaptive, sustainable and high-performance composite solutions aligned with EU strategic autonomy objectives and dual-use innovation pathways.