Cyberattacks, disinformation, and sabotage are increasingly seen as major challenges for modern societies. The Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics focuses on precisely these kinds of threats — and is now expanding its activities to Leipzig.
The Fraunhofer FKIE has officially opened its new site in Leipzig. The institute is considered one of Germany’s leading centers for defense and security research. More than 150 guests from politics, academia, industry, NATO, and the Bundeswehr attended the opening conference. The event was opened by Sebastian Gemkow, Saxony’s Minister for Science.
A new research network for Saxony
The opening in Leipzig also marked the launch of the new research network Innovation in Integrated Security and Sustainability (I2SN). The network brings together 18 institutes and professorships across Saxony to work on security-related topics including cybersecurity, energy, and materials research. It is funded through EU support programs.
Fraunhofer FKIE leads the Cyber/IT division within the network. “With our new activities in central and eastern Germany, we are strengthening cooperation with regional industry and helping create the foundation for new innovation in Saxony,” said Prof. Dr. Christoph Igel, Deputy Director of the institute and spokesperson for the network. “There is enormous potential in the innovative strength of Saxon research in technology development and methodology,” said Science Minister Sebastian Gemkow. He argued that this potential should also contribute to Germany’s security.
The opening of the new Leipzig site reflects a broader shift across Europe. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many countries have increased investment in security and defense research. The focus is no longer limited to traditional military technologies, but also includes cyberattacks, online disinformation, and the protection of critical infrastructure such as energy and communication networks. Research institutes, universities, and companies are increasingly working together to bring new technologies into practical use more quickly.
