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⭐️ Hub for Security and Defense

: The Security and Defense Hub of the SME Connect Working Group Defence on Xpert.Digital

SME Connect is one of the largest European networks and communication platforms for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Founded in 2017, SME Connect is a non-partisan organization that advocates for the interests of SMEs at the EU level, bringing together SMEs, their supporters, and relevant stakeholders such as associations, think tanks, and universities committed to SME-friendly policies.

The network aims to maximize the impact and visibility of SMEs in European politics. It serves as a platform for exchanging ideas, positions, information, and knowledge about the challenges and opportunities facing SMEs in Europe. SME Connect supports the development of constructive partnerships to find common ground or at least to facilitate an honest exchange of interests.

The SME Connect Defence Working Group – Strengthening SMEs in European Defence

Innovative SMEs are an essential part of the EU defence industry. However, they face numerous obstacles to participating in defence procurement, particularly across borders. Furthermore, the global dynamics are evolving rapidly, necessitating a European response to intensified global competition. This has underscored the need to improve existing structures and processes while simultaneously implementing new ones.

The goal of this working group is to unite SMEs and relevant stakeholders to form a consortium of entrepreneurs representing the defense sector and military suppliers. Leveraging our expertise in products, services, and markets, we aim to improve the regulatory environment within the European Union. B2B interactions are equally important to us. By joining forces, we facilitate market access and streamline financing initiatives. Together, we strive to serve as the primary resource for SMEs 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

▶️ 90 billion euro poker game in Brussels: The European Union and the financial stabilization of Ukraine
In Brussels, the financial future of Ukraine is being negotiated in a 90-billion-euro high-stakes deal. | EU member states are negotiating a historic aid package to stabilize the Ukrainian economy. | | The goal is to strengthen the country's resilience to war and crises. | At the same time, Europe's geopolitical role in a new security environment is at stake. | | Behind the scenes, national interests, budgetary discipline, and solidarity are clashing. | xpert.digital examines the financial, political, and strategic dimensions of this mammoth deal. | Readers receive in-depth analysis of budget issues, fund structures, and distribution keys. | | The dossier shows how the EU balances stability, responsibility, and its own limits. | Analyses, background information, and figures make the complex negotiations transparent and understandable. | This clarifies why the 90-billion-euro deal will determine the future of Europe far beyond Brussels. [...]

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▶️ Understanding the USA | The Architecture of American Power: How Four Schools of Thought Determine Washington's Course
Discover how four key schools of thought shape US foreign policy and determine Washington's course. | Understand the deep ideological roots of the American power architecture in politics, the military, and economics. | Learn how realists, liberals, neoconservatives, and isolationists shape US strategy in different ways. | Find out why these schools of thought are crucial for global conflicts, alliances, and trade relations. | Gain analytical tools to better understand and evaluate decisions from Washington. | Recognize how power projection, values-based politics, and security interests intertwine in US actions. | Understand the role that international organizations, military alliances, and soft power play in the thinking of American elites. | Ideal for those interested in politics, analysts, students, and decision-makers who want to understand the US beyond clichés. | Helps you read current US news strategically rather than just superficially. | A well-founded guide on Xxpert.Digital to understanding the architecture of American power in the long term. [...]

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▶️ Germany wants a military alliance with Ukraine? The economic and military realignment of the German-Ukrainian alliance
| Discover why Germany is pursuing a new arms alliance with Ukraine and what strategic goals underlie this. | | Learn how the German-Ukrainian alliance is realigning itself politically, militarily, and economically. | | We analyze security policy interests, deterrence potential, and NATO's role in the background. | Read about the economic opportunities and risks for German companies arising from closer arms cooperation. | | Understand how joint arms projects are intended to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities in the long term. | Discover the significance of arms production, technology transfer, and industrial cooperation for both countries. | We examine the impact on German defense budgets, fiscal policy, and the European security architecture. | | Critical voices, legal frameworks, and geopolitical tensions are clearly and comprehensibly contextualized. | Learn how the alliance could influence the balance of power in Europe and relations with Russia. [...]

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▶️ Leaked US strategy paper: Poland, Austria, Italy and Hungary want to deliberately break the US out of EU unity
Leaked US strategy paper reveals how Poland, Austria, Italy, and Hungary are deliberately undermining EU unity. | Explosive insight into geopolitical power games between Europe and the US. | Is the European Union threatened with a strategic split through targeted influence? | | The role of the US is in focus: partner, player, or silent beneficiary of the differences? | | | | | | | | What interests are Poland, Austria, Italy, and Hungary really pursuing behind the scenes? | The document shows how political alliances and antagonisms could shape Europe in the long term. | Experts warn of the consequences for stability, security, and cohesion within the EU. | xpert.Digital analyzes the background, strategies, and possible scenarios for the EU's future. | | Between national interests and European unity: a precarious balancing act. | | Find out now and understand which course is being set today for the Europe of tomorrow. [...]

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▶️ The EWS Live Briefing from December 2, 2025 | Dual Use as an Economic Strategy: Why Europe's Infrastructure Needs to Be Reinvented
Learn in the EWS Live Briefing from December 2, 2025, why dual-use is becoming Europe's central economic strategy. | Understand why Europe's critical infrastructure needs to be fundamentally rethought and rebuilt. | Discover how civilian and military uses of technologies are being strategically linked to strengthen resilience. | Learn about the opportunities dual-use strategies offer companies, startups, and investors in Europe. | Receive exclusive expert insights into geopolitical risks, security issues, and economic consequences. | See how new technologies—from AI to energy infrastructure—are being planned as dual-use assets. | Understand how Europe can sustainably safeguard its sovereignty and security through smarter infrastructure. | Benefit from practical examples of how states and companies are already successfully implementing dual-use. | Use the briefing to set the strategic course for innovation, location decisions, and investments. [...]

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▶️ Consequences for Europe and Germany: The end of the comfort zone
The "National Security Strategy 2025" signals the end of the transatlantic comfort zone for Germany. The former community of values is transforming into a purely transactional alliance of interests. | Military protection is thus becoming a commodity. | Germany finds itself caught in a double bind. | A massive increase in defense spending to 5% of GDP is demanded. | Otherwise, a dangerous security vacuum threatens due to a US withdrawal. | | The German business model is therefore existentially threatened. | | The US could even target "unstable governments" in Europe. | | Germany faces the toughest reality check in its history. | This means the inevitable end of many illusions. | [...]

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▶️ Fortress America: Why the USA is quitting its “world police” role – The new US National Security Strategy
| The new US National Security Strategy: Why America is withdrawing from its role as "world policeman." | Learn how the geopolitical balance of power is shifting and what the consequences are for Europe and Germany. | Xpert.Digital analyzes the strategic realignment of the US between isolationism and global responsibility. | | What priorities will Washington's decision-makers set in the future regarding security, the economy, and technology? | What does the withdrawal from international conflicts mean for global hotspots and alliances? | Discover how NATO, partnerships, and trade could change under these new circumstances. | | We examine the security policy, economic, and technological dimensions of "Fortress America." | Background information, context, and expert assessments presented in a concise and accessible way. | Understand the risks to global stability—and the opportunities for new regional orders. | Xpert.Digital: Strategic knowledge for decision-makers who want to understand the new role of the US in a timely manner. [...]

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▶️ 20,000 rounds lost: The dangerous security leak in the German Armed Forces' logistics – analysis by dual-use logistics & rapid deployment experts
In-depth analysis of a dangerous security breach in German Armed Forces logistics and its consequences for operational readiness and defense. | Experts in dual-use logistics and rapid deployment explain how 20,000 rounds of ammunition could have disappeared and what risks this poses. | Uncovering structural weaknesses in supply chains, inventory management, and control mechanisms of military logistics. | Practical insights into how dual-use logistics between civilian and military applications can become a security vulnerability. | Strategic assessment of the impact on NATO commitments, alliance capability, and international operations. | Detailed analysis of real-world scenarios in which missing ammunition could jeopardize operational missions. | Concrete recommendations for greater transparency, traceability, and digital security in ammunition logistics. | Placing the case within the context of modern, networked military logistics and critical infrastructure. | Expertly written content from xpert.digital for decision-makers in defense, government agencies, and security-relevant industries. Relevant added value for anyone who wants to better understand logistics security, dual-use structures, and rapid deployment concepts. [...]

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▶️ Rearm Europe: The “Rapid Deployment Capacity” (RDC) – Finally sovereign? The roadmap to a strategically independent Europe
Rearm Europe examines the EU's new "Rapid Deployment Capacity" (RDC) and asks whether Europe can finally act sovereignly. | Learn how a strategically independent Europe is redefining its security policy role. | The analysis shows how the RDC is intended to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities in crises. | The focus is on the path to greater autonomy from global power blocs. | The article explains which political, military, and technological building blocks are necessary. | Data, facts, and scenarios reveal how realistic European sovereignty truly is. | Cooperation within the EU and with international partners is also addressed. | Xpert.Digital demonstrates which digital and strategic innovations can support the Rapid Deployment Capacity. | Expert insights help decision-makers better assess risks and opportunities. | Ideal for anyone who wants to understand whether Rearm Europe is more than just a security policy buzzword. [...]

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▶️ Billions in synergies for Europe – The end of separation: How “Dual-Use Rapid Deployment” is transforming our infrastructure
Discover at xpert.digital how "Dual-Use Rapid Deployment" is revolutionizing Europe's infrastructure. | Learn how civilian and military technologies are merging to create billions in synergies. | See how flexible infrastructure is setting new standards for resilience and efficiency. | Understand why ending the strict separation of civilian and military applications is a game-changer. | Learn about strategies for how governments and businesses are jointly building future-proof structures. | Discover practical examples that show how investments can be recouped faster. | Learn about the role of digital technologies and networked systems in this process. | Understand how security and defense requirements are driving innovation in civilian infrastructure. | Gain deep insights into the political, economic, and technological frameworks in Europe. | Find out how you can specifically benefit from these billions in synergies with the knowledge provided by xpert.digital. [...]

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▶️ The Milipol trade fair 2025 in Paris: Between technological upswing and strategic void
The Milipol 2025 trade fair in Paris presents the latest security technologies. | Innovative products showcase the progress in security and defense systems. | Strategic solutions meet international trade visitors. | Global networking between experts and decision-makers. | Focus on surveillance, communication, and data analysis. | AI-powered applications are revolutionizing operational strategies. | Opportunities for companies in the security industry are growing. | Technological advancements characterize the exhibition. | Market developments and trends are made transparent. | Paris as a meeting place for the future and security. [...]

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▶️ Military Mobility Package: Military mobility as a crucial factor for defense readiness and enhanced deterrence
The Military Mobility Package strengthens the rapid deployment of troops and equipment across borders. | | Optimized transport routes ensure seamless military readiness. | | Improved mobility enhances deterrence against potential threats. | Europe is committed to common standards for military movements. | Coordinated infrastructure efficiently connects land, sea, and air routes. | Strategic planning reduces logistical bottlenecks and delays. | | Investments in transport networks increase defense capabilities. | International cooperation enhances crisis response. | Security and speed are central to all measures. | The package is key to modern, resilient military mobility. [...]

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▶️ De-risking instead of decoupling: The 5 steps that SMEs are taking to reprogram their industrial DNA
De-risking instead of decoupling strengthens SMEs and secures the future. | Learn the five strategic steps for reprogramming industrial processes. | Innovation replaces isolation for sustainable growth. | Global opportunities are strategically leveraged instead of being isolated. | Risks are minimized without sacrificing potential. | Clear analyses lead to sound decisions. | Cooperations foster resilience and adaptability. | Industrial DNA is rewritten smartly and efficiently. | Flexibility replaces rigid structures in competition. | With smart strategies, SMEs remain future-proof. [...]

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▶️ US shutdown – America's fatal weakness: Why Europe's security now hangs by a thread
The US shutdown reveals a political paralysis in Washington with global repercussions. | | America's fatal weakness threatens its reliability as a security partner. | Military readiness and NATO operations are being jeopardized by budget crises. | | Europe's security increasingly hangs by the thread of transatlantic stability. | | Economic turmoil and supply chain problems exacerbate geopolitical risks. | Trust among allies is eroding, and joint strategies are becoming more difficult. | The crisis is forcing Europe to rethink its defense and energy policies. | The pressure to act is mounting: Political inaction could have long-term consequences. | A stronger European pillar appears to be a necessary response to US uncertainties. [...]

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▶️ How SMEs overcome crises with flexibility: International Roundtable on SMEs | Institute for SME Research – IfM Bonn
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) overcome crises through flexible structures and rapid decision-making processes. | The International Roundtable on SMEs shares best practices and cross-border solutions. | The IfM Bonn moderates research findings and practical examples from various sectors. | The focus is on resilience, digitalization, and innovative business models. | Entrepreneurial flexibility is key to securing jobs and competitiveness. | Participants discuss political frameworks and funding strategies. | Concrete, practical recommendations for SMEs are presented. | Networking among international stakeholders promotes knowledge transfer and growth. | Case studies demonstrate how adaptability mitigates short-term risks. | The insights provide guidance for decision-makers in SMEs. [...]

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▶️ Flexibility as a condition for existence: Why the middle class can be the winner of geopolitical fragmentation
Flexibility is becoming a prerequisite for the survival of SMEs in a fragmented world. | Agile business models and adaptable supply chains create genuine competitive advantages. | Geopolitical fragmentation opens up new regional opportunities for export-oriented SMEs. | Digital transformation accelerates adaptability and expands market access. | Product and process innovation strengthens resilience against external disruptions. | Strategic partnerships and networks reduce risks and lower costs. | A focus on customer value and niche markets increases long-term competitiveness. | Diversification of suppliers and sales markets minimizes dangerous dependencies. | SMEs can thus become the winners in new value creation landscapes. [...]

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▶️ Antimony, a semi-metal – China's new super-weapon: This unknown metal is putting the USA in a tight spot
Antimony, a metalloid, is considered a key resource in modern technologies. | China's strategic push with antimony is changing the global balance of power. | | Experts warn that the US and its allies could come under economic pressure as a result. | | Antimony is important in military and industrial applications, from semiconductors to alloys. | Raw material shortages could disrupt supply chains and drive up prices. | New research reveals unusual properties of the metal with strategic potential. | Trade restrictions and geopolitical tensions are intensifying the race for antimony deposits. | Germany's and Europe's position in the supply chain faces challenges. | This article analyzes the background, risks, and possible counter-strategies. [...]

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▶️ Quantity beats quality: Why Ukrainian $500 drones outclass US high-tech weapons
Cheap $500 drones from Ukraine are changing the landscape of warfare and challenging expensive US high-tech systems. | Their recipe for success: scale, flexibility, and easy maintenance instead of expensive, individual technologies. | | Small, cheap, and effective—these drones achieve success through networking and simple tactics. | High-tech missiles and air defense systems are losing their effectiveness against countless low-cost targets. | The analysis shows how pragmatic solutions can generate asymmetric advantages. | Economic efficiency makes the difference: low unit costs versus expensive countermeasures. | | Operational data and field reports demonstrate the surprising robustness of the systems. | For defenders and manufacturers, this raises urgent questions about strategy and adaptation. | The lesson: Innovation must be scalable and affordable, not just technically superior. | A must-read for decision-makers and technology enthusiasts who want to understand how quantity can beat quality. [...]

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▶️ Germany and Ukraine: From crisis aid provider to strategic economic partner
| | | Germany and Ukraine are evolving from crisis relief partners to strategic economic partners. | Close cooperation strengthens stability, investment security, and political collaboration. | Joint development projects and reconstruction programs create sales markets and jobs. | German companies are investing in infrastructure, production, and service partnerships. | Energy cooperation and diversified supply chains increase Europe's security of supply. | Expansion of trade and logistics promotes integration into European markets. | Technology, innovation, and digital projects accelerate economic growth. | Economic interdependence contributes to long-term security and peace prospects. | Partnership potential offers economies of scale, know-how transfer, and sustainable development. | Strategic alliances between Germany and Ukraine are shaping Europe's economic future. [...]

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▶️ The Bundeswehr procurement process is considered one of the biggest obstacles: The dilemma of Bundeswehr contract awards
The Bundeswehr procurement process is seen as one of the biggest obstacles to modernization and operational readiness. | Complex bureaucracy and lengthy tendering procedures delay urgently needed equipment. | Delays lead to cost increases and risks to national security. | Opaque cost estimates and subsequent contracts strain the state budget. | Interface problems between ministries, industry, and the armed forces make clear decisions difficult. | Security requirements and export regulations further complicate procurement. | Innovation suffers when startups and agile providers are excluded from the process. | More efficient processes, standardization, and stronger project management are urgently needed. | Greater transparency, accountability, and parliamentary oversight could mitigate the dilemma. | Only through reforms can the Bundeswehr be modernized in a timely and cost-effective manner. [...]

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⭐️ Hub for Security and Defense

The SME Connect Defence Working Group – Strengthening SMEs in European Defence

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