Brandenburg Pushes Defense Industry Growth as MBDA Unveils Advanced Drone Defense Technology

In 2026, Brandenburg is actively bolstering its security and defense industry, positioning it as a key future-growth sector. The state government has launched an initiative to support the establishment and expansion of companies within this field, with a strong emphasis on integrating local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into emerging value chains. This collaborative effort involves industry, research institutions, and public entities, leveraging Brandenburg’s robust industrial base, available spaces, and proximity to Bundeswehr sites and the capital region. Economic Affairs Minister Martina Klement highlighted the sector’s growing importance, underscoring opportunities for investments, technological innovation, and secure employment in the coming years.

Amidst this regional boost, MBDA Deutschland has introduced an innovative drone defense solution at the ILA Berlin airshow, combining the DefendAir missile with a high-energy laser system to counter the rising threat of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The DefendAir missile, with a range of up to 5 kilometers, is designated as a secondary armament for the Bundeswehr’s Skyranger 30 air defense gun, with series production anticipated to begin in 2029. The complementary laser component offers rapid, pinpoint targeting capabilities at short ranges of 1-2 kilometers, significantly reducing operational costs since it requires no ammunition. MBDA’s multi-layered system aims for an initial operational capability by the decade’s end, reflecting decades of investment in cutting-edge laser weaponry and bolstering Germany’s defense technological edge.

Together, Brandenburg’s strategic industry development and MBDA’s new drone defense technology underscore Germany’s proactive stance toward strengthening national security and advancing defense innovation under dynamic geopolitical conditions.