The International Aerospace Exhibition has opened in Berlin, bringing together aerospace companies, defence manufacturers, researchers and government leaders from across the world.<\/p>\n
Military aircraft, transport planes and drones are among the biggest attractions at this year\u2019s event.<\/p>\n
However, the exhibition is taking place against the backdrop of a major development in Europe\u2019s defence industry.<\/p>\n
Days before the show opened, Germany and France agreed to abandon plans for a joint next-generation fighter jet programme, ending years of cooperation on one of Europe\u2019s most ambitious defence projects.<\/p>\n
Opening the exhibition, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz sought to emphasise continued European defence cooperation despite the setback.<\/p>\n
\u201cTogether, we are strengthening Europe\u2019s defence and also Europe\u2019s defence industry,\u201d Merz said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is essential for our security and our sovereignty. Not least, it is also good for our shared industry.\u201d<\/p>\n
The decision to end the fighter jet project followed years of disagreements between the companies involved. Yet even as that chapter closes, German industry is looking ahead.<\/p>\n
At the air show, an Airbus-led alliance of eight defence companies launched the Team Gen 6 initiative, aimed at developing a future European combat aircraft and preserving Europe\u2019s position in military aviation technology.<\/p>\n
But defence is only one part of the story at this year\u2019s exhibition.<\/p>\n
Across the exhibition halls, attention is also turning beyond Earth\u2019s atmosphere, with companies and research organisations showcasing technologies designed for future missions to the Moon and Mars.<\/p>\n
International cooperation remained essential if the ambitions were to become reality, Andreas Sch\u00fctz, the head of communications and spokesperson at the German Aerospace Centre, said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat we need is the cooperation between the nations to reach our goals, to reach the moon and Mars,\u201d Sch\u00fctz told CGTN.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s what we need for rockets like this, for space stations, for spacecraft and infrastructure on our moon and other planets.\u201d<\/p>\n
China is also represented at the exhibition, particularly in rapidly developing sectors such as drone technology and the country\u2019s growing low-altitude economy.<\/p>\n
Among the exhibitors is Qingdao Jinhuan Fuyao Machinery, which manufactures precision components used in drone applications.<\/p>\n
Company representative Molly said Europe and China each brought different strengths to the sector.<\/p>\n
\u201cEurope is strong in system integration. China is strong in efficiency and cost,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThrough cooperation and exchange, both sides can complement each other\u2019s strengths.\u201d<\/p>\n
From next-generation fighter aircraft and military drones to lunar exploration and future aerospace technologies, this year\u2019s Berlin Air Show highlights the opportunities and challenges facing an industry evolving at remarkable speed.<\/p>\n