10 innovative solutions in German industry to stabilize European security

Technological progress for a safe Europe: Ten solutions

Europe faces massive security policy challenges that require decisive, coordinated action. German industry, with its technological expertise, innovative strength, and industrial base, can make a significant contribution to stabilizing European security. In particular, the concept of dual-use logistics in combined rail-road transport, as well as other innovative approaches from fields such as AI, robotics, and drone technology, offer significant opportunities to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities while simultaneously promoting the civilian economy. The following ten proposals outline concrete ways in which Germany can sustainably improve Europe's security architecture through industrial innovation.

1. Expansion of a strategic dual-use logistics network (rail-road)

Integrated planning of critical logistics infrastructure

The development of a hybrid, multimodal logistics system with a focus on combined rail-road transport (CT) represents a central pillar of the European security architecture. This concept is based on a well-designed dual-use infrastructure: Critical CT facilities such as terminals, track sections, and loading facilities are primarily financed through defense funds, but are designed from the outset to be used efficiently by civilian logistics actors in peacetime. This aligns with the national approach to security preparedness as enshrined in the German Operations Plan (OPLAN DEU).

The dual challenge lies in meeting the increased military needs within the framework of national and collective defense on the one hand, and the civilian economic requirements for efficient and sustainable transport routes on the other. In the event of an alliance conflict, up to 800,000 NATO soldiers must potentially be transported through Germany within 180 days, with rail being the preferred mode of transport for heavy equipment such as tanks and artillery due to its capacity and efficiency over long distances. At the same time, shifting freight traffic from road to rail contributes to environmental goals and relieves the burden on road infrastructure.

Suitable for:

• Du logistics² | Double dual-use logistics: integration of rail and street for civil and military purposes

Standardization and governance for seamless civil-military use

A coherent dual-use system requires uniform standards and clear governance structures. The fragmented terminal and operator market in German rail freight, with its numerous private and public players, necessitates robust contractual agreements and potentially certifications for participating terminals and operators. Military transport requires specific technical prerequisites such as MLC (Military Load Classification) capability, ramps for tracked vehicles, high security standards, and guaranteed prioritization in crisis situations.

2. Targeted infrastructure investments with EU funding

Expansion of strategic transport corridors

The European Union has recognized the importance of transport infrastructure for defense capabilities and is specifically promoting dual-use projects. Over the past three years, Germany has secured more than €296 million in EU funding for German dual-use projects, with the EU contributing 50 percent of the total costs. The funding applications focus on railway lines and measures aimed at improving the accessibility of the TEN-T (Trans-European Transport Network) core corridors for long, heavy freight trains and enhancing transshipment capacities for rail freight.

Specifically, investments should be made in passing loops, bridge reinforcements, and the expansion of terminals for combined transport. These measures will not only improve military mobility but also strengthen the competitiveness of Germany as a business location. The framework freight contract concluded with DB Cargo in 2018, which provides for the provision of 300 railcars and locomotives for more than 1,300 military transports per year, represents a further element of this approach.

Suitable for:

• System terminals buffer storage: Multifunctional buffer storage zones for containers and complete truck and trailer combinations (semi-trailers/semi-trailers)

3. Development of innovative AI-supported logistics systems

Intelligent control and prioritization of transports

The implementation of artificial intelligence in logistics systems can significantly increase the efficiency and resilience of both civilian and military transport networks. AI-supported systems can optimize complex logistics chains, flexibly allocate transport capacities, and automatically reprioritize resources in crisis situations. An intelligent overall system could, in an emergency, implement the "express surcharge" for military transports mentioned in the framework freight contract with DB Cargo using an algorithm, thereby ensuring maximum transport efficiency.

AI-supported maintenance and servicing

The German Armed Forces already rely on AI-supported maintenance of equipment and vehicles to identify maintenance needs early, reduce downtime, and improve operational readiness. This technology could be extended to all critical infrastructure to enable predictive maintenance of the rail network, bridges, and other logistically relevant facilities. This would allow potential weaknesses to be identified and addressed before they lead to bottlenecks or failures.

Suitable for:

• Efficient maintenance logistics in the military with GS1 Datamatrix and Telemainttenance - Logistics Modernization of Maintenance

4. Expansion of drone technology and drone defense

Commercial and military drone applications

The German drone market is developing dynamically and is expected to nearly double from €955 million to over €1.7 billion by 2030, with growth primarily driven by the commercial sector. This development offers significant dual-use potential. While currently only about one in seven drones in Germany is operated commercially, this figure is projected to reach one in five by 2030. German drone companies have seen a significant increase in investment over the past two years, laying the foundation for innovation in both the civilian and military sectors.

Innovative drone defense systems

Alongside the development of its own drone technology, the defense against enemy drones must be improved. Heckler & Koch, traditionally a manufacturer of small arms, has announced its entry into the drone defense market. The company is developing a system with grenade launchers mounted on vehicle turrets and AI-supported sensors for detecting and engaging incoming drones. This technology, developed in cooperation with AI specialists and established defense companies, is expected to be operational by the end of 2026 and could make a significant contribution to the protection of European troops.

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5. Promoting robotics as a strategic dual-use field

Dual-use potential of humanoid robots

Robotics is considered a key technology with significant dual-use potential. Industrial service robotics and military robotics applications alike benefit from AI, robust sensors, and ever-increasing computing power. With its decades of expertise in mechanical engineering, automation technology, and precision manufacturing, Germany has ideal prerequisites to become a global leader in the development and production of robotic systems.

Building scalable production capacities

An effective dual-use strategy in robotics requires highly flexible and automated factories capable of rapidly switching between civilian and military production lines. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated the crucial importance of flexible and decentralized production capacities. Many European arms manufacturers struggle to cope with peak demand due to a lack of agile manufacturing capabilities, making it essential to establish flexible production lines that can be quickly ramped up in response to emerging threats.

6. Integration of additive manufacturing technologies into defense technology

3D printing for rapid prototypes and spare parts

Additive manufacturing (3D printing) is playing an increasingly important role in the development, production, and application of defense systems. Companies like Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG use additive processes such as FDM, SLA, or LPBF to quickly create prototypes or to produce manufacturing aids. These technologies offer high flexibility and can increase production efficiency.

Standardized processes for reproducible series production

For the future application of additive manufacturing, the high-quality, reproducible production of serial components is a key challenge. New processes, such as those based on binders, offer promising approaches in this regard. The goal is to develop standardized processes that meet the stringent requirements of the defense industry while simultaneously leveraging the advantages of additive manufacturing, such as weight reduction, functional integration, and rapid adaptability.

7. Improving cybersecurity for critical infrastructures

Holistic IT security concepts for Industry 4.0

With increasing automation and networking in production facilities, both office IT and production become security-critical IT systems. In Industry 4.0, the complex security issues arising from the interaction between office IT and production IT must be reassessed. A strategically developed, holistic, and standardized IT security concept for Industry 4.0 can satisfactorily meet the security requirements in production and manufacturing.

Implementation of safety standards according to IEC 62443

The IEC 62443 series of standards will play a central role in IT security within the Industry 4.0 sector. This series addresses IT security in automation technology and explicitly includes critical infrastructures such as the energy sector. The goal is to establish uniformly understood, standardized IT security levels whose compliance can be assessed and verified. German industry should take a leading role in implementing these standards, thereby contributing to the resilience of Europe's critical infrastructure.

8. Establishment of AI competence centers for defense innovation

Promoting cooperation between the military, research and industry

The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) rely on close collaboration with research institutes and industry partners, such as the Fraunhofer Institute, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Bundeswehr universities, and startups, in the development of their AI technologies. For example, together with the Fraunhofer Institute, the Bundeswehr has developed a scoring system that indicates the reliability of AI decisions. These collaborative models should be expanded and networked across Europe.

Strengthening Defense Tech Startups

Initiatives like the German Armed Forces' Cyber ​​Innovation Hub already exist, but it is underfunded and cannot invest sufficiently in startups itself. To unlock the full innovation potential in the defense sector, defense tech startups should be specifically supported. Due to their agility and innovative strength, these startups can react quickly to new threats and develop technologies that can be used in both military and civilian sectors.

Suitable for:

• Independent AI tools and AI platforms as a strategic alternative for European companies

9. Strengthening German AI expertise in industry

Catching up in the industrial use of AI

Germany risks falling behind in the use of AI in industry. Currently, only about 20-25% of German companies actively use AI. To close this gap, targeted funding programs for industrial AI applications should be established, strengthening civilian competitiveness and unlocking dual-use potential. AI applications could, for example, automate reconnaissance and surveillance, control autonomous systems, defend against cyberattacks, or optimize logistics.

Specific AI solutions for extreme conditions

A particular challenge in the military application of AI is that systems must continue to function effectively under extreme conditions and even until they are completely destroyed. German industry, with its expertise in robust industrial standards, could develop specific AI solutions that are particularly resilient and reliable. These could then be deployed both in the military sector and in extreme civilian situations such as disaster relief or industrial facilities with high safety requirements.

10. Germany as a logistical hub for European security

Implementation of the “Military Mobility” concept

Germany plays a central role as a "hub" for the deployment and supply of allied and its own armed forces within the framework of the NATO alliance. The "Military Mobility" concept aims to facilitate and accelerate troop movements in Europe. An important step is the establishment of a "model corridor" for troop movements from west to east in the event of an alliance conflict, focusing on the transport of troops, equipment, and supplies from the deep-sea ports on the North Sea to NATO's eastern flank.

Coordinated civil-military cooperation

Within the framework of Germany's operational plan, civil-military cooperation is coordinated. The Bundeswehr's Territorial Command involves the relevant federal ministries and the federal states, down to the local level, and coordinates the needs of NATO as well as those of nations transiting through Germany. This nationwide task requires close integration of civilian and military actors and could serve as a model for other European countries.

Suitable for:

• Resilience through technology: How dual-use concepts ensure supply and Germany's infrastructure

ReArm Europe: Innovative business models for German industry

German industry has numerous opportunities to contribute to stabilizing European security through innovative solutions. In particular, the concept of dual-use logistics in combined rail-road transport offers significant synergies between civilian and military requirements. The ten proposals presented here demonstrate concrete ways in which existing technologies and expertise in logistics, AI, robotics, drone technology, and additive manufacturing can be used to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities.

Successful implementation of these proposals requires a coordinated approach from all stakeholders – from the political level through the German Armed Forces and civilian industry to research institutions and start-ups. The substantial investments planned within the framework of the European defense initiative “ReArm Europe” provide the financial foundation for these measures. By consistently leveraging dual-use potential, these investments can not only strengthen Europe's security but also contribute to economic development and technological sovereignty.

Markus Becker

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