SAFE

Security and geopolitical developments in Europe are leading to a sharp rise in defence investment in Germany and the Netherlands. The German-Dutch border region boasts a strong industrial base and a wealth of high-tech expertise, for example in the fields of electronics, sensor technology, software, materials technology and systems integration. However, this potential has so far been largely untapped in defence- and security-related value chains.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular find it difficult to establish themselves in this growing market. A lack of transparency, limited networks and national fragmentation make access difficult, with the result that economic opportunities often flow to other regions.
The ‘Supplier Awareness for Future Engagement in Defence Contracts’ project – SAFE for short – addresses precisely this issue. For the first time, it creates a joint, cross-border structure in which the technological and industrial capabilities of both countries are systematically made visible and comparable. Through company visits, case studies, screenings and a digital competence platform, SAFE makes regional capabilities transparent. A practical toolbox helps SMEs to realistically assess their technological, organisational and regulatory readiness to integrate into security and defence-related value chains. A joint strategic roadmap provides a framework for businesses, policy-makers and regional development organisations.
In this way, SAFE reduces barriers to market entry, strengthens cross-border cooperation and contributes to Europe’s technological sovereignty as well as to the structural strengthening of the border region.