An industry in transition
Much more than heavy metal
The industry’s staffing needs are rising at an above-average rate, because companies have to expand their production capacities due to the many new orders. For the HR departments, dealing with rapidly growing workforces it is a comparatively new experience. This starts with the recruiting processes and extends to the task of carefully onboarding and integrating the new employees. Many come from other industries, i.e. they first have to be familiarized with the conditions in a heavily regulated environment and qualified. At the same time, long-established processes within the company are also changing.
The war in Ukraine has shown that armed conflicts are evolving toward unconventional warfare and defense. This affects not only the products but also the composition of the industry. Start-ups are being added that deal with the development of new complex systems and solutions, such as drones or autonomous systems. Keyword “New Defence”. The agile start-ups offer flexible solutions, produce large quantities and can deliver quickly. However, they sometimes find it harder than the established companies to cope with the partly lengthy and complicated procurement procedures and regulations.
Regardless of whether New Defence or established companies: technologies such as IT, AI, autonomous systems and sensor technology are rapidly gaining importance and determine the success of weapon systems. Partnerships with companies from other industries are increasing. Cooperation in the area of new IT and communication solutions in particular is a comparatively new development in the sector.
“In technical terms, the daily work often differs less than many think: good product development, clean processes, teamwork and technological excellence are just as decisive here as in other innovative industries.”
Theresa Prietz,
Head of People & Talent Acquisition,
Alpine Eagle GmbH
