The security landscape in Europe has undergone a fundamental shift. Autonomous and unmanned systems are playing an increasingly central role—from reconnaissance and logistics to protection and defense applications. As the representative body for the German security and defense industry, the Federal Association of the German Security and Defense Industry (BDSV) brings together the industry’s positions.
In the run-up to XPONENTIAL Europe, we speak with the BDSV about the strategic importance of autonomous technologies for Europe’s defense capabilities, about industrial perspectives, and about the role of the trade show as a platform for exchange, innovation, and security policy dialogue.
Interview questions:
1. Autonomous systems, sensor fusion, and AI-based decision support are developing rapidly. Where do you currently see the key areas of innovation in the defense sector—and which technologies are becoming particularly relevant from a strategic perspective?
"A great deal of innovation is taking place in the fields of autonomous systems, sensor technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). These areas are particularly relevant for reconnaissance and the networking of domains and individual weapon systems. Secure real-time data transmission and the rapid, reliable analysis of this data play a crucial role in shortening response times and better anticipating enemy actions. The automation of responses and the development of swarm technologies are also coming to the forefront. However, this also brings with it higher demands on the security of navigation, communication channels, and data transmission.
In sensor data fusion, the focus will remain on optimizing the energy requirements of sensors and computers, as well as AI-supported data fusion and analysis. In such networks, so-called edge AI systems must be able to operate as autonomously as possible and with minimal energy consumption.
Another major field of innovation is offensive and defensive hypersonic technology, which is highly complex in its entirety but is receiving more attention in Germany as well, particularly in light of the advancements made by other countries. Another megatrend is the use of quantum sensors and the exploration of opportunities for utilizing quantum computers in military applications."
2. With regard to international developments: Where does the German and European security and defense industry stand in global competition regarding autonomous systems—and where do you see a particular need for action or catching up?
"Germany and Europe have strong industrial foundations, particularly in sensor technology, secure communications, and the integration of complex platforms. German industry is represented in all domains involving unmanned systems, not least through (former) startups and scale-ups. There is also talk of ‘scalable autonomy’ in space, air, land, sea, and underwater platforms.
In global competition, particularly against the U.S. and increasingly China, however, there is a need to catch up in terms of more agile development, the integration of AI, and the rapid scaling of autonomous systems. European programs are often fragmented and hampered by lengthy procurement processes. Action is therefore particularly needed to agree on common and practical product standards and cross-border interoperable architectures. In this way, synergies at the European level can be leveraged to the fullest extent."
3. What regulatory and political frameworks are needed to specifically promote innovation in the defense sector while ensuring accountability, transparency, and effective oversight?
"Clear, practical guidelines for the responsible use of AI and autonomous systems, interoperable standards, and more efficient procurement procedures are necessary. A coordinated European regulatory framework would reduce fragmentation and accelerate joint technology development.
In addition, innovation cycles must be accelerated. Here, we need even more pragmatism, a willingness to take risks, and a certain courage to fail (keyword: “fail fast”) in order to learn quickly from mistakes and drive innovation forward. The current regulatory framework of the procurement system, including associated control mechanisms such as those of the Federal Audit Office, is not designed for this.
Furthermore, greater planning certainty is also needed in the research landscape. Here, we would like to see a long-term commitment in the federal budget so that, in addition to production and development, we can more strongly advance research in the security and defense industry over an extended period. Here, too, we see significantly greater willingness to invest and take risks on the part of the government, for example in the U.S. and China."
4. What role can XPONENTIAL Europe play as a platform for dialogue between industry, politics, and research—and what specific initiatives does the BDSV aim to promote there?
"The event program at XPONENTIAL Europe offers a comprehensive range of technical presentations, which is why the trade show provides a good opportunity to engage in national and international discourse on unmanned systems right where the action is. We see plenty of opportunities here for the BDSV, which in recent years has expanded its departments dedicated to research and innovation, new technologies, cyber, and AI, among other areas. We are therefore very much looking forward to networking and a lively exchange, which will certainly provide inspiration for our work within the association and with the Bundeswehr and government agencies. On-site, we will be available to both German and international exhibitors and visitors and are also happy to provide general information about our expertise as a knowledge hub for the German security and defense industry."
