The changing times are sweeping rapidly through many industrial sectors. In times of upheaval, this distance is increasingly transforming into a spirit of partnership. Companies that had little or no contact with defense technology for many decades are now willing to openly embrace the change.
For this reason, Knapp Service Koblenz GmbH and the Automotive Center Südwestfalen (acs) met at the Knapp site in Koblenz.
The acs is an R&D service provider and, in addition to industrial development projects, serves as a central platform for the implementation of technical content and interests of several companies in joint projects. Within the defense sector, the acs represents over 40 medium-sized companies and supports them in finding their way into the world of defense technology.
The meeting discussed the possible convergence of medium-sized automotive companies with procurement for the German Armed Forces. With its customer base in both worlds – military and civilian – Knapp offers an ideal platform for inexperienced medium-sized companies in military procurement.
Unthinkable just a few years ago, procurement for the Bundeswehr now appears to be a business opportunity. Under the title “Defense Technology Compass” (WTK 25) is currently building acs a strategic network and a detailed database for project participants.
"Defense technology needs SMEs – and SMEs need guidance. With the Defense Technology Compass and the support of Knapp Service Koblenz GmbH we are creating precisely that: a practical, networked, and partner-oriented approach to defense technology – especially for automotive companies that are increasingly recognizing the strategic potential of this market." – Maximilian Munk, acs
