ELBIT SYSTEMS DEUTSCHLAND: 120 years of innovations at the Ulm site

With his discovery of electromagnetic waves, the German physicist Heinrich Rudolf Hertz established the era of radio communication in 1886. Just 17 years later, based on his findings, the company TELEFUNKEN was founded.

In 2023, exactly 120 years later, the globally renowned traditional company TELEFUNKEN RACOMS has evolved into the German representation of the Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems. However, the expertise in the areas of radio technology and communication has been preserved and further developed over the years.

During this time, the focus has shifted from pure technological leadership to international compatibility and interoperability. Elbit Systems Deutschland was able to demonstrate this capability again in 2023 through extensive interoperability tests in the USA. The radio system HRU 9000 produced in Germany – featured in the main image above – was the only one to fully convince in one of the tested disciplines (according to STANAG 4591 – Digital Voice) and achieved 100% interoperability with all 12 test devices from other international manufacturers.

Manufacturing and maintenance competencies continue in Ulm, meeting the worldwide demand for sophisticated solutions for HF radio for military units. With a positive trend: Not only has the demand for reliable radio technology been steadily increasing for years, but the broad product portfolio of the parent company is successfully represented by the German headquarters and branches in Berlin and Koblenz.

Therefore, in February 2023, just in time for the start of the 120-year anniversary, a second building was occupied in Ulm to accommodate the rapidly growing staff responsible for the various product groups. Elbit Systems Deutschland now has access not only to its own communication devices developed in cooperation, but also to field-tested, innovative systems in Electronic Warfare, Cyber Security, Optronics, Sensors, Protection, Effects, and personal equipment – in all military domains.

"As Elbit Systems Deutschland, we have the opportunity to draw on both accumulated technical know-how and operational experiences with the products to provide the German Armed Forces with the best possible material. This rare mix in our market of high technology, availability, and user experience gives me the confidence that the company will continue to be successful and grow steadily in the coming decades," said Managing Director Gregor Zowierucha on the occasion of the anniversary. The company has earned a solid position today as an employer in the Ulm region, as well as a direct or indirect partner of the Bundeswehr in various procurement projects. The broad product portfolio of the Israeli parent company, combined with German engineering expertise and a commitment to the highest quality, create a blend where the good comes together for the benefit of the customer.

Text: Daniel Kromberg

About Elbit Systems Deutschland

Elbit Systems Deutschland is a leading system developer, producer, and provider with core competencies in the areas of radio communication, sensors, command systems, Electronic Warfare, unmanned systems, Cyber Security, and the HF competence center for the globally operating Elbit Systems group. With locations in Ulm, Koblenz, and Berlin, the company ensures the preservation of technological expertise in the heart of Europe and simultaneously provides comprehensive support to the customer base. The solutions from Elbit Systems Deutschland are not only used by the German Armed Forces and security forces, but have also proven themselves hundreds of times in international operations. More information can be found at

www.elbitsystems-de.com