Press release
Sioux Technologies is one of four Brabant organisations playing a key role in the European security project BEHOLDER. This Horizon Europe project, with a total budget of €6.5 million, focuses on developing an innovative detection system that protects citizens against chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRN-E) threats.
Under the leadership of the Dutch Institute for Safe and Secure Spaces (DISSS), fourteen partners from seven European countries are working together. From Brabant, IoT specialist OpenRemote and the municipality of Eindhoven are involved alongside Sioux. Together, they combine expertise in smart urban infrastructure, sensor integration and practical implementation.
Smart city technology for safe and liveable cities
Many existing CBRN-E detection systems still function separately from urban smart city platforms. BEHOLDER changes this by integrating sensors into existing urban infrastructure, such as smart street furniture. This creates a ‘friendly security solution’ that blends inconspicuously into the streetscape, whilst simultaneously enhancing the liveability and safety of urban areas.
Within BEHOLDER, Sioux is developing a new type of sensor to detect biological threats early in urban and public environments. By making advanced optical inspection techniques accessible and affordable, high-end laboratory technology is translated into solutions that can be deployed in large-scale numbers. Using IoT, sensors are connected to smart city networks, enabling cities to respond effectively to threats at an early stage.
Sioux strengthens European security innovation
With its broad expertise in software, electronics and mechatronics, Sioux makes crucial technological contributions to the BEHOLDER platform. ‘It is valuable to contribute from our Brainport region to solutions that make Europe safer,’ says Rene van Wijk, CEO of Sioux Technologies. ‘This project demonstrates how technology and social impact go hand in hand. We believe that smart detection, combined with user-friendly applications, can make a difference in the resilience of cities.’
Practice-oriented pilots in Europe
The project runs from June 2025 to May 2028 and includes practice-oriented pilots in the Netherlands, Belgium and Finland. There will also be a comprehensive training programme to support stakeholders in deploying the BEHOLDER platform, ensuring the system can be applied sustainably and effectively in public spaces.
Within the consortium, Sioux works closely with the municipality of Eindhoven, the municipality of Tampere (Finland), the Meetjesland police zone (Belgium), the Finnish Ministry of the Interior and the international railway union UIC. Technical contributions are also provided by Sioux Technologies, OpenRemote and specialised teams from Italy, Hungary and Poland.
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This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under the Grant Agreement No.101226039.
For more information, visit BEHOLDER.
