In addition to the German armed forces, the Bundeswehr, which is the largest exhibitor at this event, the military forces of many other countries will also be represented, with the latest aircraft and most up-to-date technology. Delegations and visitors from over one hundred countries are expected to attend the ILA. More than 200 aircraft can be seen in the air and on the display areas.
“Military aviation again plays a decisive role at the ILA,” stated BDLI president, Dirk Hoke. “We are the driving force for innovations, in our efforts to meet the increasing contribution by the German armed forces to safeguarding democracy, security and prosperity in Europe. Our entire industry, comprising systems houses and the supply sector, a large proportion of which consists of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), has at its disposal some outstanding technical skills in Germany and in Europe. These can be experienced at close quarters at the ILA – from the Eurofighter to the A400M, helicopters such as the H145, and the products and digital services of our national support industry, which makes a large and indispensable contribution to the added value of airborne platforms.”
At the Military Support Center (MSC) in Hall 3 the German air force and industry are showing how they are working together to ensure that aircraft and equipment are in a constant state of readiness. The displays by systems houses show how, working in close collaboration with the air force, they are making new technologies in the areas of digitalisation, connectivity and cyber-security available for use by the Bundeswehr. Small and medium-sized companies have a special part to play in ensuring that the armed forces are ready for action and are able to deploy the latest technological developments. As part of a complex supply chain they make a significant contribution to the efficiency of the systems, and their displays at the MSC feature their extensive ranges of products and services.
The Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz, is very impressed: “Come to the ILA. This is where you can experience at close quarters our aircraft and the hi-tech in service with the Bundeswehr. But most importantly of all, you can get to know the people behind it all, and the services that they provide. All of them, from our A400M pilots to our civilian staff, are part of our strong air force team. Together with the BDLI we can provide a modern air force that is always ready for action. We hope to see you at the ExpoCenter Airport, where we can promise you a varied program including flying displays, in accordance with the slogan: ‘Luftwaffe feels good’.
With the European Commission the ILA 2020 has the support of an important partner. Collaboration between research and industry is closer in the aviation and space sector than it is anywhere else. In the years to come, under its new leadership the European Commission is planning to take the next steps towards a European defence union. This will enable Europe to assume greater responsibility as a global player in the international security architecture. The aim is also to achieve greater European coordination in the procurement of materials in order to create synergies and to retain and expand skill levels in key technologies in Europe. Discussions about these topics will be taking place at the highest international level at the ILA.
