Defense industry
DEKRA supports the defense sector throughout the entire lifecycle
The European defence sector is undergoing a period of rapid transformation. Emerging technologies, increased digitalization, stricter security requirements, and evolving geopolitical conditions are placing greater demands on government agencies, defence contractors, and suppliers.
At the same time, equipment, systems, and infrastructure must meet extensive requirements for safety, reliability, performance, and regulatory compliance. Ensuring operational readiness requires independent verification and validation throughout the entire lifecycle—from development and testing to deployment and maintenance.
With more than 100 years of experience in independent testing, inspection, and certification, DEKRA helps defence organizations reduce risks, ensure compliance, and strengthen long-term operational resilience.
Why the defense industry chooses DEKRA
Discover the many operational advantages of working with DEKRA as a global partner for defense readiness, asset performance, cybersecurity, and logistics.
Testing and verification of systems and equipment
Defense-related equipment must perform reliably under demanding conditions and comply with extensive technical requirements before entering operational service.
DEKRA helps verify that systems and components meet national and international standards as well as manufacturer specifications.
When reliability is crucial
Services include:
- Environmental testing under realistic operating conditions.
- EMC testing and electromagnetic compatibility assessments.
- Non-destructive testing (NDT).
- Integrity assessments of critical components.
- Testing of prototypes and completed systems.
- Mobile laboratories and secure testing environments for sensitive installations.
Certification and compliance
The defense sector is subject to stringent requirements from national authorities, NATO, and international standardization bodies.
DEKRA helps suppliers and defense contractors achieve compliance through audits, assessments, and certification processes.
Security in high-risk environments
Services include:
- Support related to AQAP, STANAG, and national defense standards.
- Certification and verification in accordance with applicable regulations.
- Gap analyses and pre-assessments.
- Infrastructure audits.
- Process safety assessments.
- Support for international defense programs and cross-border operations.
Cybersecurity and digital resilience
Digitalization, connected systems, and AI-driven solutions are increasing the demand for robust cybersecurity throughout the defense sector.
DEKRA helps organizations protect critical information, secure reliable communications, and reduce risks in complex digital environments.
A resilient digital foundation
Services include:
- Cybersecurity testing and certification.
- Penetration testing and vulnerability assessments.
- Security evaluations of products and systems.
- Information security audits.
- Risk assessments and continuous security monitoring.
- Evaluation of AI-based and autonomous systems.
Specialized expertise for military aviation and operational readiness
For the defense industry, operational availability, safety, and readiness are critical. Through Force Aerospace Testing , DEKRA provides specialized non-destructive testing (NDT) services for military aircraft, aircraft engines, and aviation-related components. With more than 30 years of experience in the aerospace sector and certified specialists with extensive expertise in advanced inspection methods, we help defense organizations ensure airworthiness and long-term operational reliability of critical assets.
Using techniques such as ultrasonic testing, eddy current testing, radiographic testing, and thermography, we can identify cracks, material fatigue, and other critical defects without affecting the functionality of the equipment. This supports more efficient maintenance planning, reduced downtime, and enhanced operational capability for aircraft, helicopters, and other airborne systems.
DEKRA’s specialist expertise also supports service life extension programs, modernization initiatives, and component qualification activities. By combining Force Aerospace Testing’s aerospace engineering expertise with DEKRA’s extensive experience in inspection, testing, and quality assurance, we help defense organizations meet demanding requirements for reliability, regulatory compliance, and operational readiness throughout the entire lifecycle of their assets.
FAQ
DEKRA provides testing, verification, cybersecurity, certification, and sustainability services for defense-related systems, components, and operations across the air, land, naval, and space domains.
Yes. DEKRA holds the accreditations required to perform testing, inspection, and certification in accordance with relevant defense standards. Our laboratories provide testing against both military and civilian requirements related to safety, quality, and cybersecurity.
We translate complex regulations and standards into structured testing, audit, and certification programs. This provides organizations with a clear basis for procurement, qualification, approval, and deployment activities.
DEKRA operates according to established procedures for information security, confidentiality, and secure data management. We also help organizations identify supply chain risks and strengthen the protection of business-critical information.
We provide cybersecurity testing, security assessments, and certifications based on internationally recognized standards. The objective is to reduce digital risks and strengthen organizational resilience against cyber threats.
For optimal results, DEKRA should be involved during the development and prototype stages. Early verification reduces the risk of rework, delays, and costly approval processes later in the project lifecycle.
Yes. Through our European presence and regulatory expertise, we support cross-border projects and help organizations navigate varying national and international requirements.
Through pre-assessments, gap analyses, and accredited testing, we help organizations identify and address issues early, creating better conditions for efficient approval and qualification processes.
Yes. DEKRA has extensive experience in process safety within safety-critical industries. Our services include risk analyses, safety assessments, and support related to ATEX and IECEx requirements to help reduce the risk of major incidents.