The partnership will focus on protecting critical maritime infrastructure. It will also cover quantum technology, maritime systems, simulation and systems engineering.
Both organisations intend to combine their expertise to create synergies. The cooperation is designed to support the development of advanced security and communication solutions.
Jeronimo Dzaack, Senior Vice President of Ocean X at TKMS, said: “With this memorandum of understanding, TKMS is strengthening its strategic and goal-oriented partnership with the DLR. Together, we can combine our strengths and develop innovative security and communication solutions to shape the maritime ecosystem of the future.”
A central element of the collaboration is the development of a model-based network linking space and seabed systems. This concept is intended to close existing gaps in coverage, particularly in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
The planned network aims to provide a reliable, real-time situational picture. It is expected to enhance awareness and monitoring capabilities across maritime domains.
The partnership also includes efforts to protect critical maritime infrastructure. As part of this, autonomous systems such as the SeaCat underwater drone will be deployed.
Developed by TKMS and its TKMS ATLAS ELEKTRONIK segment, the SeaCat system delivers high-resolution underwater imagery. This capability supports the creation of comprehensive maritime situational awareness.
Frank Sill Torres, Head of the DLR Institute for the Protection of Maritime Infrastructures, said: “The challenges we face in the maritime sector, particularly with regard to resilient infrastructure, are complex and interdisciplinary. They can only be overcome through strategic cooperation between industry and research. A comprehensive exchange of knowledge is the foundation of our shared success.”
The memorandum establishes a framework for long-term cooperation between the two organisations. It reflects a broader effort to address evolving maritime security challenges through combined industrial and scientific expertise.
