The maritime sector and the defence industry are becoming increasingly closely linked. On the fringes of the 5th Kiel Security Conference, the VSM and the German Navy signed a memorandum of understanding.
According to a statement, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the Association for Shipbuilding and Marine Technology (VSM) and the German Navy have reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding and institutionalising cooperation between the German shipbuilding and marine technology industry and the German Navy. The aim is to make the industry’s innovative strength available to the German Navy even more quickly and to strengthen the exchange between both sides in a pragmatic manner.
The signing took place on the sidelines of the 5th Kiel Security Conference. Under the title ‘Between Fresh Breeze and Cold Freeze: Navigating the Future of European Security’, five foreign ministers and many other high-ranking representatives from politics, the military and academia discussed the security challenges of our time. According to the VSM, this once again highlighted the central role played by the maritime dimension in the security of Germany and Europe.
The protection of sea lanes, critical infrastructure and Germany’s defence capabilities at sea and in coastal regions requires operationally capable armed forces, including the best possible equipment for this purpose. According to the VSM, a strong industrial base is essential for this, and the association is very much aware of this responsibility. Through its strong commitment to research, development and innovation, the VSM aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its processes and products so that the German Navy and its allies can be equipped with the best technology, the association stated.
Unmanned systems are currently receiving particular attention, the VSM adds. However, the industry can also make an important contribution in many other areas to further improve capabilities, effectiveness and efficiency. This requires openness, pragmatism and close dialogue on all sides. The MoU is intended to create a framework for bringing technological excellence, industrial capability and operational requirements even closer together in future.
“The hybrid threat landscape is not a scenario; it is reality – not at some point in the future, but right now. All sections of society must draw conclusions from this. As an industry association, we are aware of our responsibility and look forward to working closely with the German Navy to ensure that the Navy can fulfil its mission to the best of its ability,” says VSM Chief Executive Reinhard Lüken.
