About the event​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Knowledge Security in Defence Research at TU Delft

Tuesday 16 December 2025, 14:00 – 17:00 | TU Delft - Aula

In times of increasing geopolitical tensions the resilience of Dutch society and the strategic autonomy of Europe are no longer self-evident. Knowledge institutions that want to contribute to the resilience of our society could do so by developing knowledge and technology in collaboration with defence partners.

While we have established knowledge security policies and practices for all research at TU Delft, additional diligence may be necessary for defence-related projects.

This symposium aims to foster dialogue and exploration of the critical challenges when engaging in defence-related research. Issues such as protecting sensitive information or ensuring compliance with security regulations and military export control. What implications may arise for the way in which the research is conducted? This symposium will not address the question whether defence-related research at TU Delft is desirable in itself.

What do we mean with ‘defence research’?

In this symposium, ‘defence research’ or ‘defence-related research’ covers a wide range of research areas aimed at enhancing the resilience of our society and in collaboration with defence partners. Many of these areas have potential applications for both civilian and defence purposes. Critical raw materials, radar, hydrodynamics or satellite technology are such examples.

Keynote - Ben Bekkering

Uniting through turbulence: Bridging research and Defence engagement in an uncertain world

In today's turbulent times, it is crucial to grasp the dynamics within the geopolitical arena and their implications for the position and security of the Netherlands and Europe. What do we need to prepare for? Who is capable of addressing these challenges? Is there a role for universities, and how can they contribute to our national security? What are the needs of Defence and what actions are taken to help build the bridge between Defence and research? With his extensive experience Ben adds valuable context to our discussions.

Breakout sessions

Three distinct break-out sessions will focus on various aspects:

1. The practical aspects of knowledge security in defence-related research

   By Jasper Slager (Impact and Innovation Centre, TU Delft) and Klaas Kroes (Knowledge Security, TU Delft)

   A former colleague calls you and asks if you would like to join a defense-related consortium. It sounds intriguing, but what are the next steps? During this breakout session, you are invited to consider knowledge security in the context of defense-related research. Which aspects need to be taken into account? Additionally, Jasper and Klaas will share their findings from the past few years.

2. Moral reasoning surrounding knowledge security in defence-related research

   By Cynthia Liem, Associate Professor, TU Delft, in coordination with the TU Delft Integrity Office

   This workshop will delve into moral reasoning surrounding knowledge security in defence-related research. Through a specific example, you are invited to discuss moral questions on the knowledge security requirements that arise when doing defence-related research.

3. Industry perspectives on knowledge security in defence-related research

   By Henk Schutte (Director Security of Thales Nederland)

   Thales provides advanced land and maritime systems, maintaining its leading position through continuous research and collaboration. Knowledge security plays a crucial role in this context. During this session, participants will learn how Thales manages knowledge protection in an ever-changing global landscape.

Informal drinks

Join us for drinks and a chat afterwards.

Knowledge Security Symposium 2024

Watch the aftermovie of last year's symposium here.