Germany and Turkey, is Necessary to Master the Global Challenges of the 21st Century
Defence Turkey: First of all thank you very much for this interview. Could you please inform us about structure of Federal Association of the German Security and Defence Industry (BDSV) and activities?
The Federation of German Security and Defence Industries (BDSV) represents the common interests of all companies with production in the fields of security and defence in Germany. At the moment this includes more than 100 member companies, more than half of which are SMEs. Membership in the BDSV is open to all companies regardless of size. This diversity of SMEs and large system integrators reflects the structure and strength of the German industry as a whole. The member companies work closely together in various specialized working groups and committees. The tasks include the communication of common interests at both national and international level to relevant political and ministerial actors, other federations and associations as well as the media and public. Furthermore, the BDSV offers expertise in all areas of the security and defence industry in Germany and is the relevant point of contact for international actors interested in enhancing cooperation with the German security and defence industry.
Defence Turkey: How do you evaluate development of German Defence Industries and export activities in 2012?
The worldwide economic environment in 2012 was a challenge – not only for the German industry. However, we can conclude that due to the flexibility and problem-solving competences of our member companies the German security and defence industry was able to once again overcome the challenges arising from a difficult international environment.
This includes, that the companies of the German security and defence industry have quickly reacted to a changing market environment. Today, the meaning of the term security has expanded when compared to 20 years ago. This expansion inevitably leads to an expansion of tasks for national security forces. The flexibility of our members has allowed the German security and defence industry to competently and quickly react to these changes and offer the right products for the security challenges of the future.
Defence Turkey: It is obvious that many European countries are slipping into recession and making military budget cuts. How do you assess latest status of that defence budget cuts ? What is your forecast in the future?
It is correct, that the reduction of national defence budgets in Europe does present a significant challenge to the European defence industry. Although the situation in Germany is comparatively better, the German industry is not immune to the negative effects of the crisis in Europe.
However, the answer to this challenge is not the renationalization of the defence markets in Europe but rather more cooperation as well as the continuation of the discussion about a common European market for deface goods. The BDSV will support these necessary steps as long as such a common market is based on a „level playing field”.
Furthermore, we assert that there is still a healthy demand for the globally recognized competences and cutting edge technology products of the German security and defence industry amongst our international partners. This stable demand contributes to the role of the German industry as an “anchor of stability” in a difficult market environment.
Defence Turkey: Could you please inform us which has conducted R&D activities by BDSV responsibility?
Research and development (R&D) is the basis for the success of the German industry. This is especially true for the security and defence industry which can claim an impressive, internal R&D-quota of 19.1% and therefore justifies the trust put in the label “made in Germany”.
The main task for the German security and defence industry in the coming years will be to secure and expand its position as a technological leader. From my perspective I can see that our members work tirelessly to achieve this goal. Therefore, I can confidently say that the companies of the German security and defence industry will, through their innovative and high technology products, continue to shape the image of the industry at home and abroad.
Defence Turkey: In spring 2010, the BDSV and the TAFF concluded an agreement, declaring their willingness to take this co-operation between ministries to the industry level. Within the light of this cooperation, could you please inform us about your activities and the developments taken since that time ?
The BDSV and TAFF have always enjoyed friendly and productive relations which were underpinned by an agreement in 2010. Since then, the two associations have met several times, at last in Germany. Although these meetings have so far not resulted in concrete projects, the BDSV sees great potential for deeper cooperation with the Turkish industry if such cooperation is beneficial to both parties and is not based on the one sided transfer of technology.
Defence Turkey: How do you assess German -Turkish defence Industry cooperation? Could you please enlighten us about your future plans in Turkey?
As I mentioned before, the last meeting between the BDSV and TAFF took place in Germany. The way I see it is that the potential for deeper German-Turkish defence cooperation is great and we look forward to being invited to Turkey for the continuation of our talks.
Defence Turkey: Would you like to give a message to our readers?
The relationship between Turkey and Germany are based on a long tradition. Today, Turkey is one of the most important partners for Germany outside the European Union. The increasing importance of Turkey as a regional power and stabilizing factor is welcomed by both the German government and industry. Close relations, based on friendship and mutual trust, between the two regional powers, Germany and Turkey, is necessary to master the global challenges of the 21st century. The BDSV will continue to contribute to this partnership.
Thank you
