Austria, Germany and Switzerland Discuss Defense Research Cooperation in Graz

Senior defense research officials from Austria, Germany and Switzerland met in Graz on October 21 and 22 to discuss closer technological cooperation, with autonomous systems, artificial intelligence and resilient energy technologies among the priorities.

The annual trilateral meeting brought together research representatives from the three countries' defense procurement organizations at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz).

According to the Swiss Federal Office for Defence Procurement, armasuisse, discussions focused on current research projects, emerging military technologies and opportunities for future joint initiatives.

The delegations examined developments in autonomous systems for defense applications, energy technology and knowledge security. Researchers from TU Graz also presented work involving autonomous platforms and resilient energy supply.

Artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and space-related research featured among the broader areas identified for future cooperation.

Switzerland was represented by Thomas Rothacher, Head of armasuisse Science and Technology. The meeting also involved Maik Kammermann, Director of Research and Innovation at the German Federal Ministry of Defence, and Brigadier Rudolf Zauner, Director of Research at the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence.

The discussions took place within the framework of the existing DACH Research and Technology Memorandum of Understanding, which supports cooperation and knowledge exchange between the three countries.

Participants also met as the memorandum's Research and Technology Steering Committee to review ongoing and potential future collaborative projects.

No new procurement contracts or specific research funding commitments were announced. The next meeting of the trilateral defense research group is expected to take place in Germany in autumn 2027.