BAE Systems announced on 8 November 2024 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with German military systems specialist ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH, part of the Hensoldt Group, to explore ways to combine the two companies’ technology and experience across the European defence market.
The range of areas where the two companies could collaborate include training, autonomous platforms and mission systems for multi-domain operations.
Both companies already work across a wide range of European defence programmes, including the Eurofighter Typhoon and Tornado programmes, while BAE Systems works with the UK/Japanese/Italian Global Combat Air Programme and ESG works on the equivalent Franco/German/Spanish Future Combat Air Systems programme.
“A collaborative approach is key for the European defence industry and this agreement is another example of where we are exploring opportunities for joint capabilities and technologies which will ensure our security for the future,” Tony Gilchrist, business development director at BAE Systems Air, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “Both BAE Systems and ESG work at the heart of many of the major European programmes and both bring opportunities to push the boundaries of what is possible, ensuring we deliver what our customers need to maintain competitive advantage.”
Alan Carson, director of fixed-wing aircraft work at ESG, stated, “In times of a continuously changing security environment and rapid development of new technologies, European industry needs to adapt and strengthen their resilience to be able to meet the customer’s needs at the speed of relevance. Facing these same challenges, the only logical step is to invest in trusted, long-term partnerships – which is why we are proud to jointly sign the MoU between ESG and BAE Systems today.
“Both companies represent a strong commitment to our customers, and we are hence committed to bringing our markets and cutting-edge technologies closer together. In the light of the Trinity House Agreement, this MoU strengthens our regional co-operation and supports an innovative industrial base,” Carson added, referring to the bilateral defence co-operation accord signed between the UK and Germany on 23 October 2024.
