New Central German Institute boosts defence industry

Defence Industry & Research New Central German Institute for Security Industry launched to strengthen defence innovation

2025-09-30 Source: Press release 1 min Reading Time

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The Central German Institute for Security Industry has been founded as a new network bringing together companies, research institutions and associations in the security and defence sector. The initiative aims to increase competitiveness, foster research cooperation and raise the visibility of Central Germany within national and European defence processes.

The founding team of the Central German Institute for Security Industry in Berlin (from left): Ingolf Schley (Treasurer), Markus Kurczyk (Chairman), Jens Lehmann MdB, and Ronald Gerschewski (Deputy Chairman).(Source: Paul Kruse) — The founding team of the Central German Institute for Security Industry in Berlin (from left): Ingolf Schley (Treasurer), Markus Kurczyk (Chairman), Jens Lehmann MdB, and Ronald Gerschewski (Deputy Chairman).
(Source: Paul Kruse)

The institute was formally established on 22 September in Berlin. Its mission is to consolidate existing industrial and research capacities in Central Germany and position the region as a relevant player in Germany’s Zeitenwende programme and European defence initiatives.

“Central Germany deserves a stronger place on the map of the German and European defence industry,” said Jens Lehmann, Member of the Bundestag and supporter of the platform. He pointed to the region’s longstanding expertise in mechanical engineering, strong research base and capable supplier structure as assets for production, maintenance and technology development in defence.

The new institute defines itself as a central interface between politics, industry and academia. A particular focus will be on initiating and supporting research and development cooperation to accelerate the transfer of innovations into defence applications. The network also seeks to generate synergies and strengthen regional value creation.

Generalmajor (ret.) Markus Kurczyk, former senior Luftwaffe officer, has been appointed as chairman. He underlined the institute’s ambition to open market access: “Our goal is to provide companies with direct access to procurement authorities and cooperation partners, while also positioning Central Germany for industrial investments and research projects. The region has repeatedly shown its ability to adapt to new industries. We want to use this strength to make Central Germany a relevant player in the security and defence economy and leverage the opportunities created by the Zeitenwende special fund.”

Founding members include representatives from industry, business and sector associations. Together, they aim to increase visibility in Berlin and Brussels, foster innovation partnerships, and establish Central Germany as a strong location for security and defence technologies in the long term.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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