This post is also available in: English
This post is also available in: English
With the launch of the Ariane 6 rocket, Europe is setting the tone for more innovation and independence in the aerospace sector. Germany in particular has contributed to this success with a wide range of innovative technology. With a focus on advancing private sector initiatives in the areas of environmental protection, defence and digitalisation, Germany will expand its position for international cooperation and innovation in the near future.
Space Tech 101
Behind Space Tech is an impressive combination of science, engineering and ground-breaking innovation. These technologies are the result of decades of research and development in various disciplines such as physics, engineering and computer science. All these components must work together seamlessly, often under the guidance of autonomous systems that are able to make decisions without human intervention. This technological advancement is the backbone of modern space travel and enables ever more challenging missions to be carried out and new frontiers to be crossed.
Space technology has far-reaching implications for various industries. Satellites are improving communication and navigation, which is revolutionising the logistics and transport industry. Earth observation satellites provide important data for monitoring climate change and managing natural resources, which is particularly important for agriculture and environmental protection. More precise GPS services and real-time data can optimise supply chains, increase efficiency and improve safety. This is particularly important for international trade and the operation of autonomous vehicles, which rely on accurate navigation data.
Why is this interesting for Denmark?
The aerospace sector in Denmark is set to receive a significant boost through various programmes. In addition to international collaborations like those with the European Space Agency (ESA), bilateral national exchange programmes play a crucial role. The foundation for further development is laid by enhancing research activities, which aims to bridge the gap between academia and the private sector, thus encouraging more start-up formations.
Politically, space technology is seen as key to Europe’s economic independence and technological sovereignty. Germany works closely with ESA to promote joint projects such as the Galileo navigation system and the Ariane rocket programmes. These co-operations are essential to strengthen Europe’s position in global competition and reduce dependence on non-European technologies.
When talking about the most important technology hubs in the aerospace sector, Bavaria is mentioned alongside well-known names such as Silicon Valley, Bangalore and Paris. The launch of the Ariane 6 rocket, which would not have been possible without German technology, demonstrates more than ever the success of the expansion of the aerospace sector.
Given the alignment between Denmark’s and Germany’s national aerospace strategies, relevant partners on the Danish side include clusters, universities, and start-ups. In Germany, key players are universities, research institutions, clusters, companies, and start-ups. This synergy creates a robust framework for innovation and growth in the aerospace industry.
How far are we?
Policy: The German government launched its new aerospace strategy (Raumfahrtstrategie der Bundesregierung, September 2023[1]) which focuses on promoting technological sovereignty and supporting sustainable and innovative developments in the aerospace sector.
German space policy is strongly influenced by the goal of technological sovereignty and securing supply chains. In addition, Germany ensures that it remains at the forefront of global technological progress in aerospace through international cooperation and strategic investment. International cooperation is promoted through initiatives such as increased collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA). The state is taking on the role of regulator and financier, while the private sector is responsible for implementation and innovation.
Investment and funding: The investment landscape in Germany is very broadly structured when it comes to the aerospace sector. The government aerospace funding budget will amount to 2.4 billion euros in 2024. In addition, Germany is investing 313 million euros in the national aerospace innovation programme. A lot is also happening at state level. The Bavarian state government, for example, is investing a total of around 700 million euros in the aerospace industry. Through the High-Tech Agenda Bavaria initiative, the state government is supporting space research with 90 million euros, including for the expansion of the Chair of Aerospace and Geodesy at the Technical University of Munich, the development of the hyperloop and the establishment of the Galileo Centre of Excellence in Bavaria. Private venture capital is also very interested in investing in the sector. Einstein Industries Ventures, for example, will invest 300 million euros of venture capital in space technology.
Entrepreneurship: In Germany, the number of start-ups in the space sector is growing continuously. The ‘NewSpace’ sector in particular, which describes a new era and approach in the space industry, characterised by the increased involvement of private companies and start-ups, is setting standards in the Bavarian region. These start-up companies are defined by innovative approaches and technological specialisations. Examples include Isar Aerospace and Rocket Factory Augsburg, which are working on the development of new rockets. The start-up scene also benefits from a strong network of investors and research institutions
Corporate: The German space sector is dominated by a number of large companies that make a significant contribution to the development and implementation of advanced technologies. MTU Aero Engines, Rheinmetall, Airbus and Siemens, for example, play a leading role in the European space programme and contribute significantly to international cooperation through their extensive resources and capabilities. These companies work closely with research institutions to advance new technologies and maintain Germany’s competitive edge in the aerospace sector.
Academia: Academic research is an essential part of space technology. Universities and research institutions such as the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and the Technical University of Munich (TUM) conduct both basic and applied research. In addition, more and more degree programmes are being established throughout Germany in the field of aerospace. At TUM alone, there will be 50 new professorships and around 4,000 students. Interdisciplinary projects that combine physics, engineering and computer science have led to new technological breakthroughs.
Let’s connect
The Innovation Centre Denmark (ICDK) is established to foster global innovation and collaboration. We offer our services to both corporates, SME’s and academic partners to bridge the gap between Denmark and leading international innovation hubs, facilitating knowledge exchange, business opportunities, and collaborative projects. If you want to dive further into the area of Aerospace Technology please reach out to Yanick Deusser at yandeu@um.dk for any inquiries.
Sources
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