Deutsche Welle (DW) Transforming Business episode on decarbonising defence

German broadcast channel Deutsche Welle (DW) published a report on the decarbonisation of the defence sector, featuring an interview with Deborah Allen, Chair of the ASD Climate and Defence Task Force. This report is part of DW's Transforming Business series, which explores the decarbonisation challenges across various industries.

The episode, focused on land defence, looks at the future of military vehicle technology and the steps being taken towards achieving climate neutrality. The episode investigates potential solutions such as battery-electric drives, hybrid systems, hydrogen-powered fuel cells, and synthetic fuels (e-fuels).

Deborah Allen’s perspectives feature in the report; emphasising the critical necessity of transitioning away from fossil fuels: 

"It's a necessity rather than an ambition in being able to move away from fossil fuels."

And also the unique challenges faced by the defence sector: "Scope 3 we will probably achieve closer to 2050 than some industries, because of that fact of having to trial and test and not compromise."

"I think recognising the longevity of defence platforms - they're in operation for 30, 40 years, it's imperative that anything that's being designed now is taking this into account, and planning for that fuel transition."