27/01/2026 - "The strategy of total defence will only succeed if the German economy remains capable of action in all danger scenarios. Only a strong economy can ensure the supply of the civilian population and armed forces in a potential emergency situation.

This calls for preparation and the willingness to address necessities urgently. Drone overflights, attacks, and sabotage affecting our critical infrastructure and businesses are noticeably increasing—these incidents are occurring almost daily now. We need to enhance our preparedness.

The business community is willing to contribute, and companies are already working on concrete solutions to strengthen Germany’s resilience. This includes safeguarding supply and value chains, ensuring access to raw materials, and securing employees. Some solutions, however, can only be implemented in close partnership with politics.

It is crucial to accelerate the planning and implementation of strategies and measures. Accelerations in planning and approval procedures, especially for investments in the security and defence fields, have been initiated by the Federal Government. It is vital that these become visibly expedited in practice. Obstacles must still be removed.

In sensitive areas, lengthy security checks continue to prevent necessary new hires. Businesses need greater clarity on employees’ involvement as reservists or in civilian aid organisations because these workers are unavailable during training exercises and even more absent during potential crises. Practical solutions are needed here.

For many companies, the issue of national service is central. Security, defence, and economic policy should be interlinked in this regard. Close cooperation between businesses and the Bundeswehr is required to ensure the interests of all stakeholders are considered. During their service, conscripts should acquire or deepen professional qualifications. Flexible and modern frameworks would simultaneously help companies better manage personnel shortages and strengthen their planning stability."