German Aerospace Center (DLR)

Institute of Maritime Technologies and Propulsion Systems

Die Windkraft ist schon jetzt die zweitwichtigste Energiequelle in Deutschland. Sie leistet den größten Beitrag zur Stromerzeugung aus erneuerbaren Ressourcen. Bereits ein Viertel des Stroms stammte im Jahr 2022 aus Windenergie. Aktuell beträgt die Gesamtleistung der Windenergieanlagen an Land knapp 60 Gigawatt. Bis Ende 2030 soll diese Leistung auf 115 Gigawatt steigen, also fast verdoppelt werden.

With our new institute name, which has been in effect since 1 January 2026, we are making our breadth of content and focus more clearly visible. The new name reflects how we already work: We think technologies, energy systems and drives in an integrated way, with a clear focus on maritime application and impact.

Prof. Sören Ehlers

Technology Platform

Animation: Future Technology Platform
Currently, a unique Technology Platform is being built. It will serve as a floating laboratory to test and further develop climate-friendly propulsion systems, for example based on hydrogen and batteries. The ship is 48 metres long and twelve metres wide, and will carry a maximum of 20 people for test trips lasting one to several days, primarily on the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Once completed, the ship will have its home port in Kiel.

Animation: Future Technology Platform

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Animation: Future Technology Platform
Currently, a unique Technology Platform is being built. It will serve as a floating laboratory to test and further develop climate-friendly propulsion systems, for example based on hydrogen and batteries. The ship is 48 metres long and twelve metres wide, and will carry a maximum of 20 people for test trips lasting one to several days, primarily on the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Once completed, the ship will have its home port in Kiel.

Platform for maritime technologies of the future

The DLR ship currently under construction is a sea-going technology platform - a place where maritime systems can be developed and tested under real conditions. The focus is on the equipment and systems on board; they themselves are the object of research...

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Departments of the institute

Maritime Research Facilities

Energy Converters and Systems

Energy Infrastructure

Ship Performance

Ship Integration

Ship Reliability

Virtual Ship

Career & Education

Vacancies at the institute

The institute offers attractive job opportunities for both researchers and non-researchers, providing exciting and challenging work in an interdisciplinary and international environment. Whether you are interested in a scientific career or would like to contribute your skills in administration, communication or IT, the institute has the right position for you.

Information for students

Students at the institute have the opportunity to work on exciting projects, further their education and gain valuable experience. The institute regularly offers positions for student assistants, which include tasks such as data analyses, programming or communication.