Editorial VDE Policy Brief
Germany is debating artificial intelligence, defence capabilities, the energy transition and digitalisation. The crucial question, however, is: who is actually going to put all this into practice?
Whilst multi-billion programmes for innovation are being approved, the number of electrical and information technology engineers is dwindling. By 2029, there will be a shortfall of around 31,000 engineers. Without them, new security and defence technologies, data centres, smart grids and connected medical technology will remain mere political announcements rather than economic reality.
The growing number of international students presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Germany needs qualified talent from all over the world. At the same time, we must recognise that a significant proportion come from countries whose nationals are often not available for roles in areas of particular security relevance – such as the defence and security industries. Technological sovereignty therefore begins with a simple realisation: Germany must once again train significantly more of its own engineers. Everyone – not just politicians – is called upon to break new ground in this regard.
An equally critical look must be taken at our digital infrastructure. Germany and Europe want to catch up in the field of artificial intelligence. Yet AI is not created in the political arena, but in high-performance data centres. Anyone discussing digital sovereignty must therefore also address issues such as land use, energy supply, public acceptance and investment conditions. Data centres are not a minor matter – they constitute strategic infrastructure.
This VDE Policy Brief 2/2026 sets out, from the VDE’s perspective, where political action is now required: from securing a skilled workforce and the intelligent expansion of AI infrastructure to clear rules for steering the energy transition, the consistent digitalisation of medical technology and the role of standardisation in the circular economy.
Technological sovereignty is not achieved through strategy papers. It is achieved through smart policy frameworks, excellent engineers and the courage to invest today in the infrastructure of tomorrow. As an independent technology organisation, this is precisely the debate we at the VDE wish to lead with this policy brief.
Markus B. Jaeger
VDE Global Head of Political Affairs
Head of VDE Defense
