Europe
Berlin and Israel Aerospace Industries partner to launch defense technology innovation hub
The State of Berlin and Israeli defense group Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) plan to establish an innovation center in the German capital focusing on aerospace, defense, security, and dual-use technologies.
The agreement was signed this week on the sidelines of the ILA Berlin Air Show by Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner and IAI President and CEO Boaz Levy.
Wegner said in a statement:
“Berlin is the most suitable location for an aerospace and defense innovation center. Given the global crises we face, establishing such a center in our capital, thereby supporting aerospace investments and strengthening ties between established companies and entrepreneurs, is of great importance. The agreement we signed with IAI will bring world-class aerospace and defense expertise to our ecosystem. Our goal is to make Berlin the number-one city for innovation.”
Levy said the memorandum reflects their “long-term relationship and commitment to Germany, as well as their vision to build deep and strategic partnerships that bring together innovation, industry, and operational expertise.”
The IAI CEO pointed out that by integrating the group’s technological capabilities into Berlin’s “dynamic innovation ecosystem,” they are creating a platform that “combines groundbreaking technologies with real-world operational needs and global market opportunities.”
“At the same time, this cooperation represents another important step toward expanding IAI’s industrial footprint in Germany through local capabilities, skilled employment, and long-term technological growth,” Levy said.
IAI was the prime contractor for the Arrow-3 missile defense system delivered to Germany at the end of last year.
Berlin views this system as the cornerstone of its goal to play a leading role in the European Sky Shield Initiative.
IAI also supplies Heron TP unmanned aerial vehicles to the German Air Force.
Under the agreement, the planned center will support startups operating in the fields of aerospace, defense, security, and dual-use technologies through accelerator programs, partnerships, pilot projects, and proof-of-concept projects.
The program will foster cooperation with local and international initiatives, support the development of industrial applications, strengthen collaboration among industry, policymakers, researchers, and investors, and advance local industrial development by increasing manufacturing capacity, creating jobs, and driving long-term technological growth.
The memorandum of understanding represents a significant milestone in IAI’s expansion in Germany and Europe.
Berlin and IAI will work closely to further increase the company’s industrial presence in Berlin, including developing local production capacities and creating highly skilled jobs.
By expanding its presence in Berlin, IAI aims to support technological innovation, develop industrial expertise, and contribute to sustainable economic growth for the local economy.
IAI has successfully launched and run international accelerator programs worldwide, including Catalyst in the US, NeuSPHERE in India, and ASTRA in Israel.