MBDA is one of the most efficient defense companies in the world

ES & T: After the situation in Ukraine has escalated so much, the Bundeswehr is once again being given greater importance. At the end of February, Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced a turning point in the financing of the Bundeswehr in a highly regarded appearance. How are the conversations with the customer developing?

Brendler:We are in intensive contact with those responsible in the government and the Bundeswehr. MBDA stands ready to support the Bundeswehr to the best of its ability. The realization that the Bundeswehr has been underfunded for years is not new. Only now it is shockingly visible and noticeable. After the attack on Ukraine, there is a consensus, especially among large parts of the population, that we in Germany need a fully equipped, quickly deployable Bundeswehr, and not just on paper. The fact is that the Bundeswehr needs reliable, long-term financing and modern equipment. The war in Ukraine shows that the number and quality of the missiles used in particular bring a decisive advantage. The special fund should therefore also serve to expand industrial capacities in the area of ​​missiles and ammunition in order to be able to sustainably supply the Bundeswehr with material in the event of a conflict. We see our contribution to the armed forces as a guarantee of protection, security and strategic independence.

ES & T: What contribution can MBDA make to the modernization of the Bundeswehr?

Brendler:MBDA is one of the most efficient defense companies in the world. In Schrobenhausen we combine skills in the areas of air defense and guided missile systems and laser technology. As the main contractor for the German Patriot air defense systems, we are responsible for technical and logistical support and are involved in the maintenance and further development of this air defense system. In the TLVS program, we have developed high technology that can be used for a powerful integrated air defense system. To defend against unmanned aerial systems at close range, we offer Sky Warden NNbS, a system that can be made operational at short notice.

We also offer high-tech products such as the Taurus cruise missile, the Meteor guided missile to combat enemy aircraft or the development of a laser weapon system to defend against drones and other types of targets.

With the Enforcer for infantry and special forces or the Joint Fire Support Missile, we offer guided missiles that can make a decisive contribution to protecting our soldiers in current operational scenarios.

ES & T: Much has been reported about the Russians' Kinshal missiles. What is this technology all about and is it really as “impressive” as advertised?

Brendler:Kinschal is a hypersonic missile that reaches its target at very high speed (> Mach 5). Russia has made significant progress in the hypersonic sector. According to the Kremlin, Kinschal was put into service in 2017.
Using launch areas on Russia's western border, over the Black Sea, the Mediterranean or the North and West Atlantic, Russia can use this missile to reach targets across Europe. This makes it all the more important to invest in protection against new types of missiles and to modernize missile defense systems.

ES & T: How important are partnerships in the implementation of future programs?

Brendler:Partnerships are part of the mandatory program of companies that, like MBDA, develop cutting-edge technology for the Bundeswehr; As a European group, we are uniquely positioned to do this. Future major projects and technologies, such as the future FCAS air combat system, the new MGCS main battle tank, the development of powerful guided missiles or ground-based air defense, can only be achieved through European cooperation. We have shown in the European cooperation program Meteor that we can make a valuable contribution.

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