Europe's way to technological sovereignty through AI-based automation: An analysis of the Kiro 2024 recommendations

Kiro strategy: Europe's path to leadership role in AI and robotics

The Kiro (artificial intelligence and robotics) recommendations published in June 2024 mark a turning point in European technology policy. Emerged from a high -ranking conference under the patronage of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK), these recommendations formulate a comprehensive framework that aims at the competitiveness of Europe in the global race for artificial intelligence and robotics to secure sustainably. The 127-page strategy paper is more than just a collection of suggestions; It is a detailed roadmap that links industrial policy initiatives with regulatory innovations. The overarching goal is ambitious, but essential: by 2030, the technological gap to the leading nations in this area, especially China and the United States, should be significantly reduced.

Strategic pillars of the Kiro 2024 recommendations

The Kiro recommendations are divided into various strategic fields of action that interlock and intensify each other. These fields of action form the foundation for a coherent and effective European KI and robotics strategy.

1. Building a pan-European network of AI and robotics clusters

A central proposal to the Kiro 2024 is the creation of seven cross-industrial clusters of excellence until 2026. These clusters are designed as technological nodes that are supposed to beat a bridge between Central and Eastern Europe. However, your role goes far beyond a pure networking function. They should become dynamic innovation centers that:

Focus on research infrastructures and use them together

The plan provides for a total of 20 AI test centers. These test centers should not be isolated laboratories, but should map realistic production environments. Companies, in particular small and medium-sized companies (SMEs), should be given the opportunity to try to try AI and robotics technologies under real conditions without having to make high initial investments. These test centers are to be equipped with the latest hardware and software and bundle expert knowledge in order to support companies in the implementation and optimization of AI solutions. The concentration of resources and expertise in these centers is intended to release synergy effects and accelerate the transfer of knowledge.

Actively promote SME integration

A decisive aspect of the cluster strategy is the targeted integration of SMEs. The recommendations provide for a "plug-and-play" model for AI modules in existing automation solutions. This model is intended to make SMEs easier to integrate AI technologies into their existing production processes without having to carry out complex and costly new developments. Due to standardized interfaces and modular architectures, AI solutions should become more accessible and customizable. In addition to technical solutions, advisory and support offers for SMEs are also planned to support them in identifying applications, selecting suitable technologies and training their employees.

Set and drive European standards

The Kiro recommendations emphasize the need to develop European standards for AI-based robotics systems. A European seal of approval is to be established by the third quarter of 2025, which certified quality, security and ethical aspects of AI robotics products and systems. This seal of approval should not only serve as a quality feature for European products, but also as a basis for a harmonized European regulation in this area. The development of standards is crucial to ensure interoperability, reduce market access barriers and to strengthen consumers and companies in AI technologies. European standardization is also intended to help shape global standards and to anchor European values ​​and norms in the development and application of AI and robotics technologies worldwide.

A concrete example of an existing initiative that points in this direction is the "Rox" ecosystem (Robotics X.0) that started in 2024. This network already combines over 300 industrial partners and 47 research institutions and demonstrates the potential of cross -sector cooperation and exchange of knowledge in the field of robotics and automation. Rox serves as a blueprint and inspiration for building up the planned Kiro clusters.

2. Acceleration of the technology transfer from research to the application

The Kiro recommendations analyze the speed of technology transfer in Europe and find that it takes an average of 5.2 years for AI and robotics innovations in Europe. In comparison, this process in China only takes 2.8 years. This discrepancy endangers the competitiveness of European companies. In order to speed up the technology transfer, the following measures are proposed:

Reform of the patent right in favor of AI innovations

The recommendations require the introduction of a "fast track" patent system especially for AI-based automation solutions. This accelerated procedure is intended to enable innovators to protect their inventions faster and thus to shorten the innovation cycle. The complexity of AI patents also requires specialized expertise in the patent offices. It is therefore proposed to establish special AI experts within the patent offices that have the necessary specialist knowledge in order to check AI patent applications efficiently and properly. A reform of the patent right should also create incentives for open source innovations and promote the spread of AI technologies without neglecting intellectual property.

Tax incentives for research collaborations

In order to intensify the cooperation between SMEs and research institutions, a research premium of 150 % is proposed for SME cooperation. This tax funding should make it more attractive for SMEs to invest in research and development in the field of AI and robotics and to benefit from the expertise of the research institutions. The research premium should not only cover direct research costs, but also take indirect costs such as personnel costs and investments in research infrastructure. The funding should be unbureaucratic and easy to access so as not to burden SMEs with administrative hurdles. In the long term, this measure is intended to lead to a greater networking of science and business and strengthen the innovation location of Europe.

Venture capital offensive for AI and robotics

Access to risk capital is of crucial importance for start-ups and innovative companies in the field of AI and robotics. The Kiro recommendations set the aim of mobilizing private risk capital of 20 billion euros by 2027. In order to achieve this goal, state security of risk capital funds is proposed. This state guarantee is intended to reduce the risk of private investors and encourage them to invest in AI and robotics start-ups. The venture capital offensive should not only concentrate on early phase financing, but also encompasses growth financing for companies in later stages of development. In addition to financial incentives, measures to improve the investment climate in Europe are also planned, such as the simplification of start -ups and the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles for investors.

A positive example of successful technology transfer is the German Transfer Center Zen-Mri. Since its foundation in 2023, Zen-Mri has successfully led 17 KI and robotics start-ups to market maturity. This center serves as a model for further initiatives and shows how targeted support and expertise can pave the way from research to commercial use.

Synergies with the EU AI Act and existing initiatives

The Kiro 2024 recommendations are closely interlinked with the risk-based approach of the EU KI regulation (Art. 5-9 Ki-VO). They take up this approach and expand it with specific criteria for the production sector. For industrial robots of risk class III, for example, a mandatory “AI audit obligation” is required every 24 months. These audits should not only check the technical security of the systems, but also take into account ethical aspects, especially with regard to autonomous decision -making algorithms. The Kiro recommendations thus help to address the ethical and social implications of AI technologies in production and to ensure that the use of AI is responsible and in accordance with European values.

At the same time, the recommendations integrate central elements of the VDMA action plan Robotics. The VDMA (Association of German Machine and Plant Construction) has already developed a comprehensive strategy for robotics in Germany. The Kiro recommendations take up this strategy and expand it at European level. Specific goals that are taken from the VDMA campaign plan and confirmed in the Kiro recommendations are:

Increase in the robot density

The goal is to increase the robot density from 219 to 350 robots per 10,000 employees in the manufacturing industry by 2030. By increasing the robot density, productivity is intended to increase the production costs and improve working conditions. The Kiro recommendations provide for various measures to achieve this goal, including investment promotion, technology advice and qualification measures.

Reduction of energy costs in production

The recommendations propose the subsidization of AI-optimized production systems to € 0.08/kWh. Energy efficiency is a central topic for European industry, both for ecological and for economic reasons. AI technologies offer significant potential to increase energy efficiency in production processes. Through intelligent control and optimization, energy consumption can be reduced and resources are protected. Subsidy of AI-optimized systems is intended to create incentives for companies to invest in energy-efficient technologies and thus make a contribution to achieving the European climate goals.

Doubling of public research funds

The Kiro recommendations are calling for public funds for research in the field of AI and robotics to 500 million euros per year from 2026. A strong research basis is the basis for technological innovation and competitiveness. The increase in research funds is intended to enable basic and applied research in the field of AI and robotics, to develop new technologies and to train highly qualified specialists. Research funding is intended to include both public research institutions and private companies and focus on strategic focus issues that are of particular importance for European industry.

Technological priorities and application cases

The Kiro recommendations identify specific technological priorities and applications that are of central importance for the future development of AI-based automation in Europe.

1. Autonomous AI agent in production

Self -learning robot controls are identified as key technology for the industry of the future. The recommendations provide for targeted support measures in the following areas:

Generative AI for movement planning

The use of Large Language Models (LLMS) for real-time adjustment of robotic paths is to be promoted. Generative AI models have the potential to revolutionize the programming of robots. Instead of laboriously programming robot movements, generative AI models can generate robot paths in real time and adapt to changing environmental conditions. This enables more flexible and more efficient production processes, especially in environments with high variability and low lot sizes.

Multi-agent systems

The networking of at least 5 robots with decentralized decision -making logic is defined as a target brand. In complex production environments, the cooperation of several robots is often required. Multi-agent systems allow robots to communicate autonomously, to coordinate tasks and to make decisions decentrally. This leads to more robust and more flexible production systems that can dynamically adapt to changed requirements. The Kiro recommendations provide for research and development in this area to improve the performance and reliability of multi-agent systems in production.

Embodied ai

The hardware software-co design for energy-efficient AI chips in robotic controllers is emphasized as an important area of ​​innovation. AI applications in robotics require considerable computing power. Conventional computer architectures are often inefficient and energetic for real -time applications in robotics. Embodied AI is pursuing a holistic approach in which hardware and software are developed together from the start to create energy-efficient and powerful AI chips for robotics controllers. This is particularly important for mobile robots and applications in resource -limited environments.

A pilot project at KUKA, a leading robot manufacturer, has already shown that AI generated program codes can achieve cycle periods of up to 37 %. This example illustrates the enormous potential of autonomous AI agents to increase efficiency and flexibility in production.

2. Human-machine collaboration 4.0

For assistive robotics in care and assembly, specific measures for promoting human-machine collaboration 4.0 are proposed:

Emotional AI interfaces

The integration of affective computing in 30 % of all service robots by 2027 is sought. Service robots who work in direct interaction with people must be able to recognize human emotions and to react appropriately. Affective computing deals with the development of AI systems that can recognize, interpret and express emotions. The integration of emotional AI in service robots is intended to increase the acceptance and trust of people into these technologies and make human-machine interaction more intuitive and pleasant.

Adaptive security systems

ML-based collision avoidance with a response time of <50 ms is defined as a technological requirement. In human-robot collaboration, security is of great priority. Adaptive security systems based on machine learning can analyze the environment in real time and dynamically adapt the behavior of the robot to avoid collisions. A response time of less than 50 milliseconds is crucial to ensure security in dynamic work environments in which people and robots share the work space.

Skill transfer platforms

AR-based training of robots by skilled workers should be funded. Programming and operating robots requires specialized specialist knowledge. AR-based training platforms can enable skilled workers to train robots intuitively and efficiently without needing extensive programming knowledge. Augmented Reality (AR) shows virtual elements into the real world in order to support the learning process and to clearly present complex facts. Skill transfer platforms help to meet the shortage of skilled workers in the area of ​​robotics and to increase the acceptance of robots in the world of work.

The BMBF-funded project "RA3" has already demonstrated that the use of skill transfer platforms is possible to reduce the cancellation times of robots by up to 63 %. This result underlines the potential of human-machine collaboration 4.0 to increase efficiency and flexibility in various areas of application.

Economic and educational policy implications

The Kiro recommendations have far-reaching economic and educational policy implications that go beyond the pure technology area.

1. Labor market transformation and qualification

The recommendations forecast a net increase of 1.2 million jobs by 2030, which, however, is closely linked to comprehensive qualification measures. In order to successfully design the labor market transformation, the following measures are proposed:

AI certification obligation for technical professions

A AI certification obligation is to be introduced for 75 % of the technical professions by 2028. The rapid distribution of AI technologies requires new skills and qualifications in many professional fields. A AI certification obligation is intended to ensure that specialists have the necessary knowledge and skills to deal with AI systems and to use the potential of AI technologies in their respective professional fields. The certification should be modular and cover different levels of competence in order to meet the different requirements of the different professions.

Modular further training with micro-degrees

The introduction of 40 "micro-degrees" in AI and robotics at vocational schools is sought. Modular further training programs with micro-degrees make it possible to train flexibly and as required in specific areas of AI and robotics. These short, focused courses are ideal for working people who want to expand their skills quickly and efficiently without having to complete a lengthy degree. In close cooperation with industry, the Micro-Degrees are to be developed to ensure that the contents mediated meet the current and future requirements of the labor market.

Ethical AI certification for engineering courses

Mandatory curricula for ethical AI certification for engineering courses from the winter semester 2025/26 are planned. Engineers play a key role in the development and implementation of AI technologies. It is therefore of crucial importance that they not only have technical skills, but also a pronounced ethical awareness and the ability to reflect on the social effects of their work. Mandatory curricula for ethical AI certification should ensure that future engineers are able to develop and use AI technologies responsibly and in accordance with ethical principles.

2. Industrial value chains and productivity

Model calculations show that the implementation of the Kiro recommendations could have significant positive effects on industrial added value in Europe by 2030:

Productivity increase in the automotive industry

A productivity increase of +14 % in the automotive industry by AI-optimized logistics robots is expected. The automotive industry is an important industry in Europe, which is strongly shaped by automation and robotics. AI-optimized logistics robots have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and flexibility of the production processes in the automotive industry. Through intelligent control and optimization, material flows can be optimized, throughput times shortened and storage costs can be reduced.

Increasing energy efficiency in production

A reduction in electricity consumption by 23 % in AI-controlled assembly systems is forecast. Energy efficiency is a central topic for the manufacturing industry. AI-controlled assembly systems can optimize energy consumption by avoiding production processes of intelligent controls and unnecessary energy losses. This not only contributes to the reduction of operating costs, but also to reduce environmental pollution from industry.

Resource savings by predictive AI controls

A reduction in material loss by 18 % by predictive AI controls is expected. Predictive AI controls can monitor production processes in real time and recognize anomalies or potential errors at an early stage. As a result, material losses can be reduced, product quality improved and committee rates can be reduced. Resource savings are not only relevant from an economic point of view, but also with regard to sustainability and gentle use of natural resources.

Challenges and critical success factors

Despite the ambitious goal of increasing Europe's market share in industrial robots from 32 % to 45 % by 2030, the Kiro recommendations identify four central challenges that are crucial for the success of the strategy:

1. Regulatory fragmentation

Different AI certification procedures in 14 EU member states make it difficult for market access and scaling of AI solutions. A harmonized European regulation in AI and robotics is essential to create an internal market for AI products and services and avoid competitive disadvantages for European companies. The Kiro recommendations are calling for increased cooperation between the EU member states in the development and implementation of AI standards and certification procedures.

2. Data availability

Only 38 % of the producing SMEs use industrialized data pools. Data is the fuel for AI systems. Access to high-quality data is crucial for the development and application of powerful AI solutions. The Kiro recommendations emphasize the need to improve access to data for SMEs and to promote the use of data pools. This requires measures to create data infrastructures, to standardize data interfaces and to promote data exchange between companies and research institutions.

3. Cyber ​​security

57 % of AI robotics systems do not have real-time monitoring for attack detection. Cybersecurity is an increasingly important topic in the field of industrial automation. AI robotics systems are potential goals for cyber attacks that can lead to production failures, data theft or sabotage. The Kiro recommendations are calling for the strengthening of cybersecurity in AI robotics systems and the development of real-time monitoring systems for attack detection. This requires investments in cybersecurity technologies, the development of security standards and the sensitization of companies to the topic of cybersecurity.

4. Acceptant gap

42 % of employees are skeptical of AI decision autonomy. The acceptance of AI technologies in the world of work and in society as a whole is crucial for the success of the Kiro strategy. Skeptic settings and reservations about AI decision autonomy can hinder the implementation and use of AI systems. The Kiro recommendations emphasize the need to promote the acceptance of AI technologies through transparent communication, participative development processes and the consideration of ethical aspects. This requires an open dialogue with the public, the integration of employee representatives and the development of AI systems that meet the needs and values ​​of people.

Among other things, it is proposed as solutions for these challenges:

European Robotics GPAI (General Purpose AI)

An open source platform for SME is intended to facilitate access to AI technologies and enable the development of one's own AI solutions. The platform is intended to provide standardized AI modules, tools and resources that SMEs can use to implement AI applications in their production processes. The open source nature of the platform is intended to promote innovation and cooperation and reduce the dependence on proprietary technologies.

Kiro security certificate

A combined test of functional safety and cyber resilience should ensure a comprehensive level of safety for AI robotics systems. The certificate is intended to ensure that AI robotics systems are both functionally safe and are protected against cyber attacks. The combined test is intended to use synergy effects and increase the efficiency of the certification processes. The Kiro security certificate is to be established as a European standard and strengthen the trust of companies and the public in the safety of AI robotics systems.

Participative development

Mandatory citizen participation in publicly funded AI projects is intended to increase social acceptance and ensure that AI technologies are developed in accordance with the values ​​and needs of the citizens. Citizen participation should take place in various phases of project development, from the conception to implementation. By integrating the citizens, transparency and trust should be created and ensured that AI technologies are used for the good of society.

Implementation roadmap and monitoring

The implementation of the 94 recommendations for action by Kiro 2024 follows a three -stage plan that defines a clear time frame and measurable milestones:

Phase 1 (2025-2026)

• Establishment of the EU Church Agency in Brussels with 250 employees. The agency is intended to serve as a central coordination center for the implementation of the Kiro recommendations and promote cooperation between the EU member states, industry and research. The agency should have a budget of 47 million euros in order to finance the first initiatives and projects.
• Start of the "Ai-For-Robotics" Excellence Cluster with a budget of 47 million euros. The cluster is intended to serve as a lighthouse project for the cluster strategy of the Kiro recommendations and intensify the cooperation between research institutions and companies in the field of AI and robotics. The cluster should concentrate on strategic focus issues and develop innovative solutions for the challenges of AI-based automation.
• Piloting of the Kiro approval seal in 300 companies. The pilot phase should serve to test the seal of approval in practice, to obtain feedback from companies and to optimize the certification procedure. The piloting is intended to ensure that the seal of approval is relevant, practical and effective and is accepted by companies and consumers.

Phase 2 (2027-2028)

• Comprehensive introduction of adaptive AI curricula at vocational schools throughout the EU. The curricula should ensure that future skilled workers have the necessary skills to deal with AI technologies and to use the potential of AI-based automation. The nationwide introduction is intended to contribute to the shortage of skilled workers in the field of AI and robotics and to strengthen the competitiveness of European industry in the field of AI and robotics.
• A market share of 50 % for European manufacturers in service robots is to be achieved. The market for service robots is growing rapidly and offers significant opportunities for European companies. The Kiro recommendations aim to position the European manufacturers in this growth market and to strengthen their competitiveness towards international competitors. This requires targeted support measures for research and development, support for the market launch of new products and services as well as the creation of a favorable regulatory environment for service robots. The focus on ethical aspects and human-machine collaboration is intended to become a unique selling point of European service robots.
• A breakthrough in neuromorphic AI chips for real-time controls is expected. Neuromorphic chips that work based on the model of the human brain promise a significant increase in energy efficiency and computing power compared to conventional computer architectures. Energy-efficient and reaction-fast AI chips are of crucial importance for real-time applications in robotics, especially in autonomous systems and in human-machine collaboration. The Kiro recommendations provide for the promotion of research and development in the area of ​​neuromorphic chips to ensure a technological lead for European companies in this promising area. This breakthrough is intended to lay the basis for a new generation of intelligent and energy -efficient robotics systems.

Phase 3 (2029-2030)

• The complete implementation of the European Robotics Data Spaces is the declared goal. The European Robotics Data Space is intended to create a safe and trustworthy platform for the exchange and the common use of data in the area of ​​robotics. This data space should enable companies, research institutions and other actors to exchange data efficiently and in accordance with data protection in order to accelerate innovations, develop new business models and to strengthen the competitiveness of the European robotics industry. The implementation of the data space requires the development of common standards, protocols and governance models to ensure interoperability and data security.
• A cost reduction of 35 % in AI robotics systems through scale effects is sought. With increasing distribution and acceptance of AI robotics systems, scale effects are to be realized that lead to a significant reduction in production costs. This cost reduction is intended to make AI robotics systems accessible to a wider spectrum of companies, especially SMEs, and further improve their competitiveness. The Kiro recommendations provide for measures to promote the market penetration of AI robotics systems and to support companies in the implementation and use of these technologies.
• The establishment of Europe as a guiding market for ethical AI certification is a central strategic goal. Europe should position itself as a pioneer for ethical and responsible AI development and application. The Kiro recommendations provide for the further development and international recognition of the Kiro approval seal for ethical AI robotics systems. This seal of approval should not only serve as a quality feature for European products, but also as a basis for global standards and norms in the field of ethical AI. The establishment of Europe as a leading market for ethical AI certification is intended to strengthen consumers and companies in AI technologies and differentiate between the competitiveness of European companies in the global market.

Monitoring and progress control

An independent monitoring consortium under the direction of the Fraunhofer IPA (Institute for Production Technology and Automation) is commissioned by the annual progress control of the implementation of the Kiro recommendations. This consortium will regularly create reports that evaluate the progress of the implementation, identify challenges and, if necessary, recommend adjustments to the strategy. The first progress report is expected in March 2026 and is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the status of implementing the Kiro recommendations. The monitoring consortium will work closely with the EU Church Agency, the EU member states, industry and research to ensure a transparent and objective evaluation of progress. The annual progress reports are intended to serve as the basis for the further development of the Kiro strategy and ensure that the goals are achieved.

Kiro 2024 as a catalyst for Europe's technological sovereignty

The consistent and quick implementation of the Kiro 2024 recommendations is the potential to increase the European share of the global market for AI and robotics from currently 19 % to impressive 31 % by 2030. However, this ambitious climb is not a sure -fire success, but requires a concerted effort of all the actors involved. The ability to optimally use the synergies between the EU AI Act, the Robotic Offensive of the VDMA and the Kiro requirements and to integrate them into a coherent European strategy will be decisive for success.

Initiatives such as the Robotics Institute Germany (RIG) and the planned Kiro certification agency are the first promising steps in this direction. They create institutional structures that make it possible to combine Europe's traditional strengths in basic research with the practice -oriented expertise of European industry. This connection between scientific excellence and industrial application is an essential competitive advantage in Europe, which is to be further strengthened by the Kiro recommendations.

It will be shown whether Europe succeeds in forming an actually coherent and effective European AI and robotics strategy from the formulated recommendations. This strategy not only has to generate innovative strength and economic growth, but also ensure the social acceptance of AI technologies and focus on ethical standards. The Kiro 2024 recommendations offer a promising timetable for this path. Whether Europe will successfully take this path depends on the determination and commitment of everyone involved to pursue the formulated goals and to implement the necessary measures consistently. The technological sovereignty of Europe in the field of AI and robotics is at stake-and the Kiro 2024 recommendations could prove to be the decisive catalyst to achieve this sovereignty and to secure in the long term. The success of the Kiro initiative will not only shape Europe's economic future, but will also have a lasting impact on the global landscape of technology development and application.

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