Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics FKIE

The Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics FKIE develops technologies and processes with the aim of early detection, mitigation and management of existential risks. In close cooperation with strategic partners, the institute is dedicated to the entire processing chain of data and information: from acquisition, transmission and processing to reliable protection. The Fraunhofer FKIE is committed to this mission both in the civilian sector and in command and reconnaissance processes in the defence technology sector.

The human factor is of central importance to the work carried out at Fraunhofer FKIE: research focuses on developing effective and efficient human-machine systems that place people at the center as decision makers and responsible actors. In the context of use by the German Armed Forces, civil security agencies and the industry, the Fraunhofer FKIE develops methods and procedures for all aspects of security - be it on the ground, in the air, at sea, under water or in cyberspace. 

As a leading institute for applied research and application-oriented innovation in information and communications technology, the Fraunhofer FKIE is active in five interdisciplinary research fields where it has built up specialized knowledge. Its research services range from studies and tests to the development of prototypes.

Thanks to a total of nine departments with different, complementary core competencies, the institute has broad-based expertise and is capable of offering systemic solutions. Each of these departments conducts research and development at the high scientific level symbolized by the Fraunhofer name. With broad-based competence, and excellence in detail, the Fraunhofer FKIE takes on the latest scientific-technological challenges in security related issues.

Advanced Solutions

 

The online magazine of Fraunhofer FKIE presents current research topics  and solutions for the urgent challenges of our time.

»Digitalization in hazard prevention«

What opportunities and potential does digitalization offer for security authorities and emergency forces? And how can Fraunhofer FKIE support them?

 

Topic overview:

 

  • Fire department & disaster preparedness
  • Border & site security
  • Drone detection & defense 

Press releases

 

2.12.2025

LUCHS 2: Fraunhofer FKIE and IABG test NGVA compliance

The contract for the delivery of LUCHS 2 reconnaissance vehicles has just been signed. This means that in 2029, the first German Armed Forces vehicle will roll off the production line that is based entirely on NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture from the scratch. Fraunhofer FKIE and IABG have now been tasked by BAAINBw to test the vehicle for NGVA compliance.

 

20.11.2025

European Land Robot Trial 2026

When robotics experts gathered for the first European Land Robot Trial (ELROB) in 2006, no one could have predicted that it would become such a success story. Two decades later, the demanding performance comparison of military robotics, organised by a team from Fraunhofer FKIE, is now a fixed date in the calendars of researchers, clients and users. The venue for 2026 is Thun in Switzerland.

 

30.7.2025

Effective drone defense system developed

How can police security forces successfully detect and defend against drones? The research project "IDAS-PRO" provides an answer: During the major final demonstration in Mosbach, Baden-Württemberg, the drone defense system developed over 2,5 years was successfully showcased in realistic test scenarios. The attending users particularly noted the system's flexible deployment options.

 

12.3.2025

Mourning for Dr. Wulf-Dieter Wirth

The Fraunhofer FKIE mourns the loss of an outstanding scientist, great colleague and impressive person: At the age of 90, Dr. Wulf-Dieter Wirth passed away on 14 February 2025. With his passing, research has lost a pioneer in the field of radar technology, a creative mastermind and a personality who has shaped generations of scientists.

Upcoming Events

 

 

Event I 15. - 19.06.2026

European Land Robot Trial

20 years of ELROB: Robotics experts meet for a performance comparison in Thun, Switzerland.

Conference I 23. - 25.11.2026

18th Symposium Sensor Data Fusion

Trends, Solutions and Applications

 

Fraunhofer FKIE Locations

Headquarter Wachtberg

Fraunhoferstraße 20

53343 Wachtberg

Germany

Phone +49 228 9435-0

Fax +49 228 9435-685

Bonn

Zanderstraße 5

53177 Bonn-Bad Godesberg

Germany

Telefon +49 228 50212-400

Fax +49 228 50212-688