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Why this German robotics founder rejects military contracts

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Kai Steinecke
November 3, 2026

As governments and investors pour into defense technologies, David Reger, CEO of Neura Robotics, is betting on intelligent robots. He explains why Europe's future hinges on industrial productivity.

David Reger outlines a vision for advancing humanoid robotics, physical AI and industrial automation through a network of public "robot gyms," where companies and individuals can train robots, develop task-specific skills and monetize them through a shared platform.

He says the company develops both robots and the underlying AI infrastructure, with current deployments focused on industrial applications such as machine operation, package handling and autonomous physical labor.

Reger argues that Europe and Germany can lead the next wave of robotics innovation by leveraging their industrial expertise rather than competing in military robotics. He highlights collaboration, real-world training data and a marketplace for robotic know-how as key advantages, positioning physical AI as a major driver of economic growth and a source of greater competitiveness, productivity and global influence for Europe.

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