After three days reserved for trade visitors, the International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) in Berlin opened its gates to the public this weekend, drawing crowds with fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. The Bundeswehr, Germany's armed forces, dominated the event as the largest single exhibitor, using extensive exhibition space to display its latest capabilities and engage with potential recruits.
Colonel Kristof Conrath, the Bundeswehr's project director for ILA 2026, explained in an interview that the decision to feature cutting-edge equipment—such as the Navy's new P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, the NH90 Sea Lion helicopter, and various drone systems—was deliberate. "We do not want to put on display aircraft that have already flown or been seen a thousand times over, but to show our latest capabilities," Conrath said. The exhibition also marks the 70th anniversary of the Luftwaffe, with four aircraft—the A400M, CH-53, Tornado, and Eurofighter—painted in special anniversary liveries.
A Shift in Public Perception
Conrath noted a significant change in how the Bundeswehr is perceived since the war in Ukraine began. "The ILA has changed in that we can now showcase our capabilities. We no longer have to hide," he said. "The public now understands that a country has to be capable of waging war. That cannot be done with simple vehicles, but only with weapons systems." He added that Germany can now exhibit these systems "with pride because we have something to offer NATO." This reflects a broader "Zeitenwende"—a watershed moment in German defense policy, underscored by a special fund for military modernization.
The display includes air defense missile systems, which have become highly topical given the conflict in Ukraine, and drones, which have transformed modern warfare. The Bundeswehr is also highlighting its role in NATO, a theme that resonates amid reports of potential US reductions in fighter jets and warships for Europe. For more on that, see US Plans to Reduce Fighter Jets and Warships for NATO in Europe, Report Says.
Recruitment as a Core Mission
Beyond the hardware, recruitment is a central focus. The Bundeswehr has set up numerous career advice stands, where soldiers offer insights into daily life and visitors can explore cockpits and talk to pilots. "We want to bring the Bundeswehr closer to the public and present it as an attractive employer," Conrath said. "We really go on the offensive in terms of public outreach and recruiting young talent." The event features interactive displays, including a Transformers-style walking act, to draw attention to career opportunities.
The Bundeswehr's presence at ILA is part of a broader effort to address personnel shortages, a challenge faced by many European militaries. The fair also underscores Germany's commitment to European defense cooperation, even as joint projects like the Franco-German FCAS fighter jet have collapsed. For context, see Airbus-Led Consortium Proposes New Fighter Jet After Franco-German Project Collapses.
Conrath emphasized that the ILA is not just about showcasing technology but about connecting with the public. "Once their interest is sparked, we have the right staff on hand to give detailed advice," he said. The event runs through the weekend, with the Bundeswehr aiming to leave a lasting impression on visitors and potential recruits alike.
