Space Café Radio - Innovation in the Skies: Unveiling the DLR National Drone Research Center with Daniel Suelberg

DLR National Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Innovations and Future Prospects

In this episode of Space Café Radio, host Torsten Kriening talks about the inauguration of the DLR National Drone Research Center in Cochstedt, Germany, on December 8, 2025. Joined by Daniel Suelberg, the center's Head, they explore the strategic and operational reasons behind Germany's need for such a facility. The conversation covers the reduction of testing times for drone technologies, the importance of the newly implemented geozone, and the center's different mission profiles, ranging from drone technology development to airspace integration and security applications. 

Additionally, they discuss the global position of Germany in drone technology, the importance of counter UAS technology, and the dual-use reality of civil and security applications. Tune in for a comprehensive understanding of how the center aims to bridge the gap between research, industry, and regulatory bodies to accelerate drone technology development.

Useful link:

DLR National Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Space Café Radio brings you talks, interviews, and reports from the team of SpaceWatchers while out on the road. Each episode has a specific topic, unique content, and a personal touch. Enjoy the show, and let us know your thoughts at radio@spacewatch.global

Chapters

• 0:00 Space Cafe Radio - Innovation in the Skies: Unveiling the DLR National Drone Research Center with Daniel Suelberg
• 0:40 Inauguration of the DLR National Drone Research Center
• 1:17 Purpose and Evolution of the Test Center
• 5:06 Mission Profiles and Research Pillars
• 7:30 Impact of Ukraine Conflict on Drone Development
• 9:26 Global Position and Future of Drone Technology
• 11:57 Space Integration and GNSS
• 16:33 Counter UAS Technologies
• 18:30 Dual Use Reality and Security Applications
• 21:04 Global Market Position and Strategic Vision
• 25:03 Conclusion and Future Vision