Security is not only a basic need of every human being, but also one of the most important challenges for the networked and globalised society and economy of the future. Security research represents both a separate research area and a cross-sectoral task at DLR. In this cross-sectoral area, research and development activities in the fields of aeronautics, space, energy and transport that have relevance for defence and security are planned and controlled in coordination with partners in government, science and industry.
Protection and monitoring of critical infrastructure
In interdisciplinary and cross-focal projects, 24 of the existing DLR institutes as well as the first and still under construction DLR Security Research institute, the Institute for the Protection of Maritime Infrastructures (MI) and the Institute for the Protection of Terrestrial Infrastructures (PI) contribute to the development, testing and evaluation of security-related technologies. In future, additional capacity and expertise will be established at the new institutes, which will expand and consolidate DLR’s security research portfolio.
DLR has comprehensive end-to-end system competence for space-based and airborne platforms. It offers expertise for key sub-systems, such as sensor technology, Earth observation and communications. DLR has a number of satellites and the associated operational facilities and data reception infrastructure, as well as numerous research aircraft, various recording and evaluation procedures and special simulation environments. Using these assets, DLR is able to contribute to the protection and monitoring of critical infrastructure, crisis and disaster management, border security, and protection against terrorism and organised crime. Experience in the field of ‘dual-use’ rounds off the profile of DLR’s core competencies.
Independent consulting and evaluation
DLR’s independent analytical and assessment expertise contributes to maintaining and strengthening their ability to assess the state’s security precautions. In addition to cooperation with other national and international research institutions and organisations, DLR’s security research also maintains a close dialog with the relevant ministries, public institutions and commercial enterprises.
International networking of security research
DLR is part of national, European and global security research networks. With its research activities, DLR supports Germany's position in the face of European and international competition. The strategic orientation of DLR’s cross-sectoral security research is thus based on future European security and defence policy. It also takes into account the capability profiles defined at an international level for protecting the general public and securing peace.
