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⭐️ Hub for security and defense

: The security and defense Hub of the SME Connect Working Group Defense on Xpert.digital

SME Connect is one of the largest European networks and communication platforms for small and medium -sized companies (SMEs). Founded in 2017, SME Connect is involved in the interests of medium-sized companies at the EU level and brings SMEs, their supporters and relevant stakeholders such as associations, think tanks and universities, which are committed to SME-friendly politics.

The network pursues the goal of maximizing the effect and visibility of SMEs in European politics. It serves as a platform for the exchange of ideas, positions, information and knowledge about the challenges and opportunities that SMEs meet in Europe. SME Connect supports the development of constructive partnerships in order to find common positions or at least enable an honest exchange of interests.

The Working Group Defense of the SME Connect - Strengthening SMEs in European defense

Innovative SMEs are an essential part of the EU defense industry. However, they encounter numerous obstacles in participating in gathering defense, in particular cross -border. In addition, global dynamics develop rapidly, which requires Europe's answer to the tightened global competition. This has underlined the need for improvements to existing structures and processes while newly implemented.

The aim of this working group is to combine SMEs and relevant interest groups in order to form a consortium of entrepreneurs that represents the defense sector and military suppliers. Using our expertise in products, services and markets, we strive to improve the regulatory environment within the European Union. B2B interactions are of the same importance for us. The merger makes it easier for market access and rationalize financing initiatives. Together we strive to serve as a primary resource for medium -sized companies in Europe's defense industry.

Markus Becker

I would be happy to serve as your personal advisor.

Head of Business Development
Chairman SME Connect Defense Working Group

LinkedIn

▶️ A dual-use strategy to modernize German seaports through integrated high-bay logistics
The innovative dual-use strategy is revolutionizing the modernization of German seaports through integrated high-bay logistics. | | State-of-the-art technologies enable the efficient use of port infrastructure for military and civilian purposes. | The strategy combines logistics, defense, and economic development in a previously unique way. | High-bay warehouse systems optimize storage capacities and increase the handling speed of goods. | Automated logistics systems increase the precision and efficiency of port operations. | | The dual-use strategy strengthens Germany's national security and economic competitiveness. | Innovative infrastructures enable the flexible use of seaports in various scenarios. | The integration of advanced logistics technologies creates new jobs and economic opportunities. | Technological innovations play a key role in the modernization of maritime infrastructure. | The dual-use strategy positions German seaports as future-oriented and multifunctional logistics centers. [...]

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▶️ From “Readiness 2030” to SAFE: 19 of 27 EU member states want billions in loans for armament projects – for security and defense
The EU is preparing for a strategic defense initiative designed to strengthen the security of its member states. | | 19 of 27 countries have opted for billions in loans to support defense projects. | The "Readiness 2030" program is being transformed into the SAFE concept to improve European defense capabilities. | The planned investments aim to strengthen technological innovations and military readiness. | This coordinated approach underscores the importance of a common defense strategy within the European Union. | The billions in loans are intended to enable state-of-the-art defense technologies and equipment. | Security and defense are considered a key priority for European cooperation. | | The program promotes the development of cutting-edge technologies in the defense sector. | The initiative demonstrates the growing strategic importance of a common European defense policy. | With SAFE, the EU aims to significantly improve its resilience and strategic autonomy. [...]

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▶️ Dual-use logistics as a key element to make espionage via supply routes more difficult
| Dual-use logistics is a complex security concept for preventing espionage in supply chains. | The strategic control of transport routes enables effective defense against potential threats. | | Modern logistics systems are developing innovative methods to protect sensitive goods transports. | Intelligent route planning and security protocols minimize vulnerabilities. | International cooperation plays a crucial role in the implementation of dual-use logistics strategies. | Technological advances enable improved monitoring and control of goods flows. | | Companies and security authorities work closely together to reduce espionage risks. | Flexible logistics concepts are key to adapting to changing threat scenarios. | | The fusion of security technologies and logistics management creates new defense options. | Dual-use logistics represents a holistic approach to protecting critical infrastructures and transport routes. [...]

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▶️ Dual-use economy: Why the invisible power of dual-use technology will determine Europe's future
The German automotive industry is seeking innovative solutions in a challenging economic landscape. | Dual-use goods offer a promising way out of the current crisis and open up new strategic perspectives. | Technological flexibility and adaptability are becoming key factors for future success. | The combination of military and civilian applications creates unexpected opportunities for growth and diversification. | International cooperation and technology transfer can strengthen the competitiveness of German automakers. | Innovative dual-use strategies enable companies to tap into new markets while minimizing risks. | Research and development play a crucial role in the transformation of the automotive industry. | Global challenges require creative and multifunctional solutions. | Adaptability is becoming a decisive competitive advantage in a rapidly changing economic world. | Dual-use goods can thus serve as a beacon of hope for a renaissance of the German automotive industry. [...]

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▶️ Is the multipolar world a myth? That's what makes it so dangerous for all of us
The idea of a multipolar world is more complex than it initially appears. | Geopolitical tensions demonstrate that traditional power structures are changing dramatically. | The danger lies in the unpredictability and power struggles between different global actors. | Conflicts are simmering in various hotspots around the world and destabilizing international relations. | Multilateral cooperation is becoming increasingly challenging due to diverging national interests. | Strategic alliances are shifting more rapidly than ever in modern diplomacy. | The complexity of international relations requires a nuanced understanding of global power dynamics. | Each region of the world is developing its own strategies to secure its geopolitical interests. | The future of the international order remains unpredictable and highly dynamic. | Only critical thinking and open dialogue can help overcome the challenges of this multipolar reality. [...]

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▶️ Dual-use goods as a beacon of hope for the battered German automotive industry
The German automotive industry is seeking innovative solutions in a challenging economic landscape. | Dual-use goods offer a promising way out of the current crisis and open up new strategic perspectives. | Technological flexibility and adaptability are becoming key factors for future success. | The combination of military and civilian applications creates unexpected opportunities for growth and diversification. | International cooperation and technology transfer can strengthen the competitiveness of German automakers. | Innovative dual-use strategies enable companies to tap into new markets while minimizing risks. | Research and development play a crucial role in the transformation of the automotive industry. | Global challenges require creative and multifunctional solutions. | Adaptability is becoming a decisive competitive advantage in a rapidly changing economic world. | Dual-use goods can thus serve as a beacon of hope for a renaissance of the German automotive industry. [...]

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▶️ The Logistics of Deterrence: An Analysis of NATO Troop Deployments to the Eastern Flank
The Logistics of Deterrence analyzes NATO's strategic troop movements on its eastern flank. | Military positioning plays a crucial role in Europe's geopolitical landscape of tension. | | Modern defense strategies require precise and rapid deployment mechanisms for troops and equipment. | The geographical location determines the complexity of the logistical challenges on the eastern flank. | Detailed planning and infrastructure measures are crucial for effective military repositioning. | Maritime and land-based transport routes are carefully coordinated to ensure maximum operational readiness. | | Technological innovations improve the speed and efficiency of troop movements in sensitive border regions. | Diplomatic tensions directly influence NATO's military deployment strategies. | International cooperation and communication are key elements of successful defense planning. | The deterrence strategy is based on the ability to respond quickly and decisively to potential threats. [...]

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▶️ Bundeswehr procurement and municipal responsibility: The new role of municipalities – bureaucracy and building law in focus
| Bundeswehr procurement faces a complex challenge of municipal realignment. | Municipalities are increasingly assuming responsibility in strategic procurement processes. | Bureaucratic structures are being fundamentally revised and modernized. | | Building law plays a decisive role in the redesign of municipal responsibilities. | Transparency and efficiency are key elements of the current administrative reform. | Digital transformation processes support the realignment of municipal procurement. | Technological innovations enable faster and more precise decision-making. | Strategic planning is being optimized through data-driven analyses. | Bundeswehr procurement is developing into a dynamic and modern administrative area. | Municipalities are positioning themselves as key players in the strategic procurement landscape. [...]

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▶️ The new dimension of defense: Why speed decides over security
The new dimension of defense is bringing revolutionary changes to security strategy. | | Speed is becoming the decisive factor determining success or failure in the defense context. | Modern technologies enable unprecedented responsiveness in critical situations. | Intelligent systems and AI-supported analytics are revolutionizing defense approaches. | Real-time information and precise data processing create an advantage over potential threats. | The ability to detect and respond quickly is becoming key to cybersecurity. | Networked defense systems form a multi-layered protection architecture for complex challenges. | Prevention and rapid intervention are the new fundamental principles of modern security strategies. | Technological innovations are making defense systems more flexible and adaptable than ever. | The future of security lies in the combination of speed, intelligence, and forward-looking planning. [...]

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▶️ The NATO major exercise Quadriga 2025: Germany's largest military demonstration of alliance solidarity in the Baltic Sea region
The NATO exercise Quadriga 2025 marks a significant military demonstration of alliance solidarity in the Baltic Sea region. | Germany plays a central role in this large-scale strategic exercise, which underscores NATO's defense readiness. | | Military experts see Quadriga as a clear signal of unity against potential threats in the region. | The exercise encompasses complex scenarios that will intensively test the cooperation of various NATO member states. | Cutting-edge military technology and high-precision coordination between armed forces are at the heart of this international demonstration. | Numerous nations contribute their specific military capabilities to this joint exercise. | The geopolitical significance of Quadriga 2025 goes far beyond a mere military exercise and symbolizes the defense readiness of the Western alliance. | Strategic exercise scenarios are planned in detail to ensure maximum operational readiness. | Security in the Baltic Sea region is at the heart of these coordinated military efforts. | Quadriga 2025 underscores the importance of collective defense and international cooperation. [...]

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▶️ Turkey as a key strategic partner for Europe
Turkey is a crucial geopolitical hub between Europe and the Middle East. | As a key strategic partner, it offers Europe economic and security advantages. | Turkey's geographical location makes it an important bridge state between different cultures and regions. | Economically, Turkey boasts dynamic industrial potential and a young, innovative population. | Its strategic position on the Bosporus enables control over important trade routes and straits. | Politically, Turkey strives for close cooperation with European institutions and is a major NATO partner. | Culturally, Turkey offers a unique connection between Eastern and Western traditions. | Technologically, the country is developing into a major innovation center with a growing startup ecosystem. | Diplomatically, Turkey plays a key role in regional negotiations and conflict resolution. | As a bridge between cultures and continents, Turkey represents a model for intercultural dialogue and understanding. [...]

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▶️ Defense budget: Rising spending and persistent dissatisfaction – Why is there still not enough money?
| The defense budget is a complex issue that constantly gives rise to new challenges and debates. | Rising spending demonstrates that countries must increasingly invest in their military security. | | Despite increased budgets, persistent dissatisfaction with the allocation of funds and resource utilization remains. | Many experts argue that the money provided is insufficient to meet modern defense requirements. | Geopolitical tensions and technological developments are increasing the pressure on defense budgets worldwide. | Innovative defense technologies and cybersecurity require massive investments that exceed traditional budgetary frameworks. | The transparency and efficiency of the use of funds are increasingly being critically scrutinized. | Strategic realignments and complex global security situations require flexible financing models. | International cooperation and burden sharing are being discussed as possible solutions. | The challenge remains to find a balance between defense capability and financial sustainability. [...]

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▶️ The Two Faces of Innovation: Rise and Change of the Dual-Use Sector in Germany and Europe
The study sheds light on the rise and transformation of the dual-use sector in Germany and Europe. | | It highlights opportunities for business and research, as well as ethical and security policy tensions. | Technologies with civilian and military applications are shaping innovation paths and value chains. | European cooperation and regulations influence market structures and export controls. | Startups and established companies are driving development, while risks and responsibilities are growing. | | Policy, compliance, and risk management are crucial for sustainable use. | The economics of the sector offer growth potential, but also geopolitical dependencies. | Transformable business models and research partnerships determine future viability. | The analysis provides recommendations for decision-makers in business and politics. | Read more on xpert.digital about strategies, regulation, and innovation management. [...]

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▶️ Dual-Use: Weapon or Tool? The Fascinating Dual Technology That's Bringing Billions to Germany
Dual-use technology combines civilian innovations and military applications and drives Germany's economy. | Billions in revenue are generated from the export of complex components and high-tech solutions. | | At the same time, dual-use products raise ethical and legal questions about control and responsibility. | | Security interests and international regulations determine which technologies may be exported. | Research and development benefit from dual applications and accelerate technological breakthroughs. | Many jobs in industry and SMEs depend on this forward-looking sector. | Transparency and audit mechanisms are crucial to preventing misuse and illegal transfer. | Cooperation with partner countries creates markets, brings know-how, and strengthens foreign trade. | Politicians and companies must exploit economic opportunities while simultaneously limiting risks. | This balancing act shapes Germany's role as an innovation engine with global responsibility. [...]

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▶️ Building blocks for EU national defense: NATO's Framework Nation Concept
NATO's Framework Nation Concept offers a toolbox for EU national defense. | | It strengthens cooperation between member states. | The focus is on common security and defense. | The concept promotes the exchange of resources and information. | | It supports rapid response in crises. | The goal is a stable and secure European defense architecture. | The framework efficiently coordinates strategies. | State-of-the-art technologies and tactical approaches are integrated. | | The concept strengthens defense capabilities against external threats. | It offers flexible solutions for diverse national needs in Europe. [...]

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▶️ Bundeswehr deal with Google: How much sovereignty is Germany really giving up for the Google Cloud?
The Bundeswehr deal with Google raises important questions about data sovereignty. | | The use of the Google Cloud is at the center of the debate about security and control. | | How much sovereignty is Germany really giving up? | Experts discuss the risks and opportunities of cloud deployment. | | The Bundeswehr wants to combine innovation with protection. | Transparency and data protection remain central issues. | | Legal frameworks are crucial for success. | Users and politicians are closely monitoring developments. | xpert.digital analyzes the background and consequences of the deal. | Stay informed about the balance between digitalization and security. [...]

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▶️ Roads, railways, waterways: Is Germany's infrastructure at risk of collapse despite record budget?
Germany's infrastructure faces major challenges despite record budgets. | Roads and railways are under heavy strain and are at risk of collapse. | Waterways are also struggling with bottlenecks and maintenance backlogs. | Billions in investments are being made, but the backlog of repairs continues to grow. | | Transport is becoming increasingly inefficient and causing high costs. | | Urgent modernization is necessary to secure the economy and society. | | Without sustainable measures, supply bottlenecks could occur. | Experts warn of long-term consequences for Germany as a business location. | Innovative solutions and digital technologies could help improve the situation. | The future of infrastructure will determine prosperity and mobility in Germany. [...]

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▶️ Swap body systems for containers with swap body platforms: The modern logistics of the Bundeswehr
Modern swap body system optimizes container transport. | | Innovative swap body platforms increase flexibility. | | Specially developed for the German Armed Forces. | Efficient logistics for rapid deployments. | | Robust technology for heavy loads. | Simple and fast loading and unloading. | Fast swap processes save time. | Maintenance-friendly design guarantees reliability. | Pioneering transport solutions for military requirements. | Increased operational efficiency through modern equipment. [...]

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▶️ Federal budget 2026: Budget discussions and defense spending during the summer break
The 2026 federal budget is the focus of intensive deliberations. | The summer recess brings a break in budget negotiations. | | Defense spending plays a central role in the discussions. | Dates for further deliberations are already being planned. | | The Bundeswehr's financial resources are being carefully analyzed. | Savings and investments are being weighed against each other. | Political actors express differing opinions on the level of spending. | Transparency and control are essential requirements for the budget. | | A balanced budget should ensure stability. | xpert.digital provides up-to-date and comprehensive information on all developments. [...]

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▶️ Without civilian industry, no logistics in the event of a disaster and civil-military cooperation (CMC)
Without the civilian sector, functioning logistics in a state of defense is not possible. | The civilian economy plays a central role in supplying the armed forces. | Effective civil-military cooperation (CMC) strengthens the country's security. | CMC optimally combines the resources and competencies of both sectors. | Stable logistics ensures rapid response times in the event of a crisis. | Cooperation between the military and the civilian population is essential. | Only through joint action can a defense situation be successfully mastered. | Innovative solutions arise from close cooperation between the business and military. | CMC improves the protection of critical infrastructure. | On Xpert.Digital, you can learn how important civilian participation is for security. [...]

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⭐️ Hub for security and defense

The Working Group Defense of the SME Connect - Strengthening SMEs in European defense

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