In the Royal GS podcast, Kai Wegner made it clear that he sees great potential for the capital in defense technology.
For a long time, Berlin was primarily known for e-commerce, fintech and software startups. Now, however, another industry is increasingly taking center stage: defense and security technology.
Wegner has big plans for Tegel
In the Royal GS podcast, Kai Wegner made it clear that he sees great potential for the capital in this area. His goal is to turn the former Tegel Airport into a leading location for defense tech companies. He says: “I can do something like that in Tegel if I form a new cluster in that area.”
You can listen to the podcast here: Spotify and Apple Podcasts
The push comes at an exciting time. Since the Russian attack on Ukraine, billions have been flowing across Europe into new defense and security technologies. Startups are working on drones, AI systems, sensors and cyber defense solutions.
Even investors who previously often avoided the topic are increasingly discovering the area for themselves.
Why Tegel is ideal for Wegner
From Wegner’s point of view, Tegel has the best conditions. The site offers large development areas, close connections to science and research and enough space for new companies.
In the future, Tegel could take on a similar role to Adlershof, which has developed into an important science and technology location in Europe in recent years: “We have Tegel as a really good place for this, with the university that will finally start there because we have made the funds available in the budget. Something can develop there like in Adlershof. Adlershof is a great example of what can come from it.”
A strategic advantage for Berlin
This could be an important step for the capital. Berlin would not only strengthen its position as a startup metropolis, but also benefit from a market that is expected to continue to grow strongly in the coming years.
While other cities are courting AI or biotech companies, Berlin could set its own focus with defense tech. Tegel could become the flagship of this development and play a central role for the next generation of technology startups.
