This was demonstrated by our performance in fiscal year 2024: We maintained our growth trajectory at an even faster rate, generating revenue of over € 2.2 billion. Our order backlog reached a new record level of € 6.6 billion. We won landmark long-term individual orders, such as for the NNbS air defence system and our TRML-4D and Spexer radars. The market is still in its structural growth phase, which is why we see HENSOLDT as excellently positioned to perform well over the long term. Our result for the year enables us to allow our shareholders to continue benefiting from the success of HENSOLDT. We will therefore propose to increase the dividend to € 0.50 per share.

We have set ourselves the goal of maintaining this rate of growth over the next few years. Our new corporate strategy “North Star”, which we officially presented at our Capital Markets Day in December 2024, will guide us in our approach. It comprises four central axes, which enable us to actively drive the changes required: Firstly, we are pursuing sustainable and profitable growth in Germany, Europe and selected international markets. Secondly, we are focusing on increasing efficiency and continuously expanding our capacities so that we can deliver significantly higher volumes. Thirdly, we are steadily pushing ahead with digitalising our portfolio and will play a pioneering role in the transition towards software-defined defence. And fourthly, we want to provide our colleagues with continuous support as well as ongoing development opportunities, which is why we are committed to a modern, transparent corporate culture and a strong HENSOLDT brand. All of this shows that we have actively set our course for long-term success.

As our valued shareholders, one thing is of particular importance to me: maintaining dialogue with you, our investors and analysts. This exchange always provides invaluable insight for us in terms of our strategy. Which is why I am delighted that we held our fourth Capital Markets Day back in December – this time in London, one of the leading financial centres in Europe. Our aim is not just to continue these forms of dialogue in the future, but to consolidate and enhance them.

Finally, and most importantly, our success would simply not be possible without the commitment of our employees, whose numbers are constantly growing. Their talent for innovation and their passion ensure that HENSOLDT continues to go from strength to strength. The Management Board and I look forward to implementing our new strategy together with our outstanding teams. We are shaping the future.