Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics FKIE
German Army Command and Fraunhofer FKIE plan to expand their collaboration
The Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics FKIE in Wachtberg has welcomed several visitors of the highest rank: Chief of the Army, Lieutenant General Alfons Mais, Major General Klaus Frauenhoff, Commander of the Army Concepts and Capabilities Development Centre, and Colonel Rainer Beeck, Chief Digital Officer of the Army, were invited by Institute Director Prof. Peter Martini to gain insights into the current research conducted by the FKIE. The exchange lasted several hours and focused in particular on how FKIE researchers can help digitally transform the German Army.
During a tour of the FKIE laboratory, the high-ranking visitors from the armed forces took time to discuss innovative technologies and current issues with the researchers in person. The institute’s exhibits and keynote speeches presented topics such as the use of AI in electronic warfare, acoustic reconnaissance options on the battlefield, the use of digital twins in system design and virtualized operations centers for unmanned systems.
Referring to his recent visit to Singapore, Lieutenant General Mais reported: “The Singapore Armed Forces make sure that they deploy systems that are simple enough to be used confidently by conscripts. We could take a leaf out of their book, as some of our solutions require far too much training and expertise.” Institute Director Prof. Martini confirmed that Fraunhofer FKIE always strives to fulfill this requirement when developing new technologies for the armed forces. A central aspect of the institute’s research includes ergonomics and user orientation — right from the very start of the development process.
The Chief of the Army ended his visit to Wachtberg on a very positive note, with the prospect of returning at the beginning of 2024 to further explore the potential of this collaboration.
