Germany’s Ministry of Defense has begun a major modernization effort focused on acquiring loitering munitions for frontline deployment. Israeli companies UVision and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) are playing key roles in the initiative. UVision, in partnership with Rheinmetall, will supply Hero series drones with up to 200 km range and diverse payload options. IAI is also teaming with European defense firm MBDA to deliver Harop drones. The program represents a strategic shift in German defense policy toward rapid integration of advanced unmanned systems.
Related Posts
Germany’s F-35 Order Faces Uncertainty Amid Calls for Defense Independence
- Veiko Lukmann
- 28/02/2025
- 0
Analysts are raising concerns about the future of U.S. defense sales to Germany, particularly the $8.8 billion order for Lockheed Martin F-35A jets. Friedrich Merz, the CDU’s chancellor candidate, has pushed for greater German defense independence, casting doubt on ongoing U.S.-German military contracts. A Lockheed Martin spokesperson deferred political questions to the German government, emphasizing that the F-35 procurement is a government-to-government agreement. While some U.S. contracts, such as the CH-47F helicopter deal, are expected to proceed, analysts warn that Germany’s push for self-reliance could impact future sales. The shift reflects growing European efforts to reduce dependence on U.S. military […]
Rheinmetall Considers Volkswagen’s Osnabrueck Factory for Military Production
- Veiko Lukmann
- 13/03/2025
- 0
Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger suggested that Volkswagen’s Osnabrueck plant could be converted for military production, as Volkswagen explores repurposing or selling the site. Papperger expressed interest in acquiring car manufacturing sites, but emphasized that large defense orders, such as for Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, would be needed before making such an investment. Volkswagen announced in December 2024 that it was reviewing alternative uses for the plant, raising hopes that a sale could help preserve jobs. While Rheinmetall and Volkswagen already collaborate on military truck production, Papperger clarified that there is no formal plan for Osnabrueck yet. However, he stated that […]
Rheinmetall Acquires Loc Performance To Expand US Market Presence
- Veiko Lukmann
- 03/12/2024
- 0
Rheinmetall Group has announced the acquisition of Loc Performance Products, LLC, a U.S.-based military vehicle specialist, as part of its strategy to expand in the world’s largest defense market. The $950 million acquisition strengthens Rheinmetall’s industrial base in the U.S. and positions it for major contracts, including the $45 billion XM30 infantry fighting vehicle program and the $16 billion CTT tactical truck program. Loc Performance, with its advanced manufacturing capabilities and 1.7 million square feet of production space, enhances Rheinmetall’s capacity to support U.S. Department of Defense modernization efforts. The partnership combines Loc’s manufacturing expertise with Rheinmetall’s next-generation technologies to […]