The German defense company Hensoldt, specializing in radar, optics, and electronics systems, has offered jobs to employees laid off by the leading automotive companies Bosch and Continental.
This move comes as Germany’s defense industry experiences growing demand amid geopolitical instability, while the country’s automotive sector faces serious economic challenges.
According to the Financial Times, Hensoldt aims to attract skilled professionals released from the automotive sector, particularly engineers, programmers, and technical specialists. Unlike the automotive industry, which is struggling due to declining demand, the transition to electric vehicles, and pressure from Chinese competitors, Germany’s defense sector is receiving large government contracts amid increased military spending in Europe.
Earlier, Bosch and Continental announced workforce reductions due to declining sales, supply chain disruptions, and the global market transformation. At the end of 2023 alone, Continental stated its plans to cut around 7,000 jobs, while Bosch announced restructuring measures affecting thousands of employees.
Hensoldt, on the other hand, is expanding production and requires new personnel. In 2023, the company secured multibillion-dollar contracts with the German government, including agreements to supply radar systems for Eurofighter jets and develop air defense technologies.
