Innovation crucial for Switzerland

Around 220 guests from business, science, the armed forces and administration met on November 4, 2021 in the multipurpose hall of the barracks in Bern for this year's industry orientation. Following the invitation of the Chief of Armament Martin Sonderegger, the Chief of the Armed Forces, Corps Commander Thomas Süssli, and the Head of Armasuisse Science and Technology, Thomas Rothacher, gave presentations.

Martin Sonderegger opened the industry orientation with the currently topical subject of "Security of the Future - Security for Switzerland". In his presentation, the Chief of Armaments addressed current procurements relevant to security policy. In doing so, he also addressed offset transactions and the associated importance of Switzerland's security-relevant technology and industrial base (STIB). Corps Commander Thomas Süssli commented on the topic.

"Why innovation is crucial for our security". In his remarks, he pointed out that innovation was central for Switzerland as a business location, but also for the future of the Swiss Armed Forces. The ability to innovate is the key to long-term success, he said.

The exponential development of technology with the fourth industrial revolution, scarce resources as well as the struggle for talent required constant questioning. The third speaker was Thomas Rothacher, who said that the rapid pace of technological change requires both civilian and military organizations to find new ways of finding solutions. These, Rothacher said, would only lead to success if all the circles involved were involved. Rothacher also presented new instruments and platforms in this context.

Source: Armasuisse