ILA 2024: Green Skies & Cutting-Edge Jets
Over 600 companies and organisations from 31 countries are presenting their cutting-edge advancements in aeronautical technology at the ILA-2024 international aerospace trade fair currently underway in Berlin.
Climate neutrality, digitalization, and the promotion of a sustainable supply chain were identified as the key themes of this year's airshow, according to DW.
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Transport Minister Volker Wissing, and Economy Minister Robert Habeck were among the prominent figures who delivered speeches at the event.
Scholz Vows to Bolster Germany's Defense Industry
"The current geopolitical climate underscores the critical importance of a robust European and German defence industry capable of continuous production of all essential weaponry and ammunition," Chancellor Scholz declared, as quoted by the dpa news agency.
Scholz elaborated that the previous policy of exercising caution in developing the defence industry is now obsolete. He emphasised that Russia's invasion of Ukraine has exposed Germany to "a new security landscape," necessitating a shift in approach. The Chancellor announced his intention to procure an additional 20 Eurofighter jets for the German Air Force, augmenting the 38 currently under development.
Airbus to Unveil New Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Model
The European aerospace giant Airbus will be showcasing a novel drone model at the airshow. This unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is designed to accompany Eurofighter fighter jets during flight and is reportedly capable of undertaking "high-risk missions" under the control of a pilot on board the fighter jet, Airbus explained.
German Transport Minister Denounces Technological Limitations in Aviation
During the opening ceremony of the airshow, German Transport Minister Volker Wissing lauded German aviation for its position as a "global leader in environmental protection and a trailblazer in zero-emission propulsion, unmanned transportation, and air taxi technologies." He stressed the importance of Germany continuing to spearhead this pioneering role. Furthermore, Minister Wissing vehemently refuted discussions concerning technological limitations within the aviation industry, proclaiming them to be detrimental to Germany's attractiveness as a business location.
German Economy Minister Advocates for Climate-Neutral Transformation
German Economy Minister Robert Habeck emphasised the need to steer the transformation of German aviation towards achieving climate neutrality. He explained that prioritising climate protection by implementing "new, competitive technologies" would not only yield environmental benefits but would also ensure growth in the high-tech sector, fostering the creation of high-value jobs within Germany.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
