The maritime & defense economy in Germany's "True North"
Sustainable full steam ahead
At the heart of Europe’s thriving maritime economy, Schleswig-Holstein is a prime location for companies in this sector. Europe, a continent with a coastline longer than those of the USA and Russia combined, relies heavily on maritime trade, with ships handling 90% of external trade and 43% of internal EU trade. This positions Schleswig-Holstein as a strategic gateway for businesses seeking growth in this vital industry.
Seaports
Strategically located between the Baltic and North Sea, Schleswig-Holstein's ports are essential nodes in Europe's maritime network. Around 25% of German shipping companies are based here and the region's 30+ ports handle over 13 million passengers and 52 million tons of cargo a year. The six largest ports — Lübeck, Brunsbüttel, Puttgarden, Rendsburg, Flensburg, and Kiel — account for 88% of the state's total maritime throughput. It is also worth noting that: around 70% of the cargo transported through these ports is traded with Baltic countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Russia.
Innovation in Maritime Defense
- Schleswig-Holstein is the only federal state that borders both the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, offering a maritime environment ideal for testing ships, sensors, and autonomous systems.
- WTD 71 (Defense Technology Agency 71) in Eckernförde is the German Navy’s primary test center for surface vessels, weapons, and complex systems.
TechHUB SVI Nord supports clients in the development and commercialization of maritime defense technologies through targeted networking with industry, academia, and public institutions; access to testing infrastructure; engagement with end-users; and consulting on procurement processes—with the goal of establishing Schleswig-Holstein as a leading hub for maritime (dual-use) defense innovations.
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