ASDEX Upgrade is a tokamak experiment with ITER-like geometry, the linear dimension being smaller than ITER by a factor of ~ 4. The programme is directed towards establishing the physics base for ITER operation, but we also address physics questions that have immediate impact on the design of ITER subsystems. Our programme is embedded in the EU and world-wide fusion programme and supported by a strong theory effort at IPP.

The talk will present recent research results from the key areas confinement, stability and exhaust. Special emphasis is laid on the integration of these elements into a consistent operation scenario
beyond the ITER baseline ELMy H-mode scenario. Also, future research plans and the connected upgrades to the hardware will be presented.