MEFI proudly presents the latest research breakthroughs from the Futuristic Interactive Technologies (FIT) research group at Turku University of Applied Sciences. For more than a decade, FIT has advanced metaverse research by combining social interaction, hands-on immersive design, and deep digital twin integrations. The unit has become an internationally recognized expert in virtual training, remote operations, and metaverse based collaborative technologies — with numerous national and international awards demonstrating its excellence. In this MEFI Flash, FIT showcases two recent technical proof of concepts built on its own metaverse and XR technology stack and guided by a clear dual-use strategy: Dual-Use Situational Awareness (presented by FIT research lead Karri Mikkonen) FIT’s research experience capabilities enable rapid creation of realistic, mission relevant and physical 3D environments, 360 images, videos, captured by drones. This has dual use implications for both emergency services and military, these capabilities accelerate operational planning, immersive training, and Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) and Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). FIT’s involvement in European research initiatives further highlights its leading role in developing shared metaverse based situational awareness solutions for both civilian and defense applications. 2. AI Design Space (presented by FIT project advisor Aapo Nikkola) AI Design Space brings imagination into shared virtual reality — turning spoken ideas into living environments. In AI Design Space users can design together in real-time. They can speak or type to describe a theme (surrounding 360 environment) and any 3D objects to be created into shared virtual reality. After creating, users are able to move and edit 3D objects.