Arnold NextG Blogpost: Europe’s sovereignty starts with technology as a strategic factor

The race for autonomy: Why Europe must catch up technologically

Europe’s security environment remains tense. While tank deliveries, defence budgets and armament programmes dominate the public debate, a crucial race is taking place in the background: the race for technological autonomy. It is about AI, drones, cybersecurity – and about systems like drive-by-wire and the NX NextMotion platform by Arnold NextG, which make the deployment of these technologies possible in the first place.

Because: Those who cannot defend digitally will also lose in the analogue world.

Technology as a geopolitical instrument of power

China is strategically investing in autonomous systems. The US is expanding its leadership in defence technology with programmes like Replicator 2 and xTechIgnite. And Europe? Despite initiatives like the Strategic Compass, the European Defence Industrial Strategy or the EDA’s APAS Initiative, implementation often lacks speed and industrial strength.

“EU member states must be able to protect themselves – within NATO, but if necessary, also on their own. This new era demands bold decisions and determined action.”
Jiří Šedivý, Chief Executive, European Defence Agency, EDA Annual Report 2024

Drive-by-wire as a key technology for defence and security

What began in the automotive sector as an innovation for highly redundant safety architectures – developed originally for mobility solutions for people with disabilities, where absolute reliability is vital – has become a strategic instrument of defence.

Drive-by-wire replaces mechanical controls with digital interfaces – precise, software-controlled, fail-operational and certified.

Why is this so crucial?

• No drive-by-wire means no autonomous platforms
• No autonomous platforms means no modern defence operations
• No certified digital control means no market access in security-relevant sectors

Those who master drive-by-wire control access to one of the most dynamic segments of military and civil mobility in the coming decade.

Arnold NextG: Europe’s answer to global systems

With NX NextMotion, Arnold NextG offers a drive-by-wire platform that is modular, redundant, and ready for deployment. Unlike many US systems, it is platform-agnostic – usable on tracked, wheeled, hybrid, electric or diesel-powered vehicles.

Certified according to ISO 26262 (ASIL D), ISO 61508 (SIL3) and ISO 21434 (Cybersecurity), NX NextMotion meets the standards that, according to the EDA, should be established as European benchmarks. This is no technical footnote – this is digital defence capability.

Setting standards, securing sovereignty

A key to technological independence lies in standardisation. While the US sets national frameworks for autonomous driving with the FMVSS regulations, Europe is still working towards alignment between ISO, ECE and national authorities. “The demand for harmonised safety and performance standards in the US could also shape international regulations. This offers Arnold NextG the opportunity to help shape such standards from the outset.” Analysis: Securing American Leadership in Autonomous Vehicles, 2025

Europe needs providers like Arnold NextG involved in standardisation processes to build a sovereign defence industry that is independent of the US and China.

Conclusion: Technology leadership is the new foundation of defence capability

The question is no longer if Europe must invest in key technologies like drive-by-wire – but how fast. NX NextMotion proves that the solutions are ready. Now what is needed is political will, bold partnerships and a shared goal: to see technology as an opportunity for defence.

Because: Those who do not control their own systems will be controlled by others.

We control what moves!