German intelligence agencies plan Google cloud system for secret data exchange

The military intelligence service MAD, domestic intelligence agency BfV and foreign intelligence service BND intend to use an air-gapped version of Google Distributed Cloud, according to the report.

The system, known as "ND-Cloud," would operate autonomously with no direct connection to the internet, the broadcasters reported.

Data would be stored entirely within Germany, while Google would have no access to the information, according to sources cited in the report.

The platform would also operate as a separate, specially protected information technology network.

Germany's domestic intelligence agency BfV dismissed concerns that reliance on a US-based technology company could compromise security or conflict with the country's earlier preference for European technology providers.

In a statement to the broadcasters, the agency said European solutions remained a priority for strengthening resilience but stressed the importance of using the most advanced technologies available.

"The BfV's capacity for action and innovation depends directly on the availability of modern IT systems and technology platforms," it added.