EU governments are urging Britain to extend its nuclear deterrence to Europe, fearing a reduced U.S. security commitment under Donald Trump. Friedrich Merz, expected to become Germany’s next chancellor, is negotiating a €200 billion emergency defense fund with the Social Democrats. A European diplomat stressed that Britain and France must lead European security discussions, as they are the continent’s only nuclear powers. Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domanski echoed the sentiment, stating that Europe’s defense is unimaginable without the UK. The push reflects growing European efforts to strengthen defense capabilities amid global uncertainty. Original news
Category: Germany
Rheinmetall Converts Berlin and Neuss Factories for Defense Amid Rising Military Spending
Rheinmetall plans to repurpose two automotive plants in Berlin and Neuss for defense production, responding to increased European military investment. The factories, which currently produce automotive parts, will shift to Rheinmetall’s Weapon and Ammunition division, though some automotive operations will continue. The company emphasized that no explosives would be processed, focusing instead on protection and mechanical components for military use. The decision follows pressure for higher NATO defense spending, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump’s calls for increased contributions. Rheinmetall’s market value has nearly doubled since Trump’s election, reaching approximately €39 billion, amid growing demand for European defense capabilities. […]
Rheinmetall Secures €260 Million Deal to Support German and NATO Troop Logistics
Rheinmetall has signed a €260 million ($271 million) framework agreement with Germany’s Bundeswehr to provide logistical support for troop redeployments domestically and internationally. Announced on Wednesday, the contract runs for three years with an option to extend until 2029. The agreement also includes logistical support for NATO forces, reinforcing Germany’s role as a key military hub in Europe. CEO Armin Papperger highlighted that rising European defense spending, partly influenced by Donald Trump’s calls for increased military investment, could drive significant company growth. The deal strengthens Germany’s ability to mobilize and support forces amid growing security concerns. Original news
Rheinmetall Wins Contract to Supply C-390 Flight Simulators to Dutch Air Force
Rheinmetall has secured a contract worth a “double-digit million Euro” to provide flight simulators and cargo handling trainers for the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s (RNLAF) Embraer C-390 transport aircraft. Production of the Full Flight and Mission Simulators (FFMS) and Cargo Handling Station Trainers (CHST) will begin immediately, with delivery expected by the end of 2026. The FFMS will meet Level D standards, allowing pilots to train under both normal and emergency conditions. Meanwhile, the CHST will enhance cargo handling training for flight crews and loadmasters with advanced visual display technology. The deal strengthens the Netherlands’ military training capabilities as it […]
Germany Chooses Israeli PULS Rocket System Over Lockheed Martin
Germany’s selection of the Israeli-designed PULS rocket artillery system over Lockheed Martin’s options signals a shift in European defense procurement. Berlin signed a $57 million contract with Elbit, choosing a system that can fire rockets from multiple manufacturers, unlike Lockheed’s proprietary GMLRS launchers. U.S. restrictions currently prevent Lockheed missiles from being used with PULS, though Germany will maintain its MARS launchers for existing stock. The decision challenges Lockheed’s market dominance and reflects Germany’s push for greater defense autonomy. Berlin is also exploring European missile production to reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers. Original news
European Defense Start-Ups See 24% Surge in Investment Amid Rising Security Concerns
Investment in European defense and security start-ups jumped 24% in 2024 to $5.2 billion, outpacing AI venture capital growth on the continent over the past two years. A report by the NATO Innovation Fund and Dealroom highlighted growing investor confidence in companies like defense AI firm Helsing and drone maker Tekever, despite a broader downturn in European VC funding. Germany overtook the UK as the leading destination for defense tech investment, with Munich attracting nearly $1 billion in funding last year. The NATO fund, launched in 2022 with €1 billion, aims to bridge Europe’s funding gap in defense innovation, as […]
Germany Deploys Patriot Air-Defense Systems to Poland
Germany has deployed two Patriot air-defense systems to Poland, the Bundeswehr announced on February 7. The mission, which began in mid-January, involves 100 vehicles and 200 personnel from Germany’s Surface-to-Air Missile Group 21, replacing a U.S. Patriot unit stationed in Poland for over two years. The six-month deployment includes a command center and support personnel to strengthen regional air defenses. While the U.S. continues providing Avenger systems, Norway has stationed F-35A fighter jets and NASAMS units to enhance security. The move reinforces NATO’s collective defense posture amid ongoing regional tensions. Original news
Germany Selects Elbit’s Euro PULS Rocket System Over Rheinmetall and Lockheed
Germany has chosen Elbit Systems’ Euro PULS artillery rocket launchers over Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin’s Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System. The decision, announced on February 6, includes an initial contract worth $57 million. The selection was part of a broader agreement involving the German, Dutch, and Israeli governments. KNDS-Germany also played a role, leveraging its experience in upgrading the German Army’s M270 MLRS. The deal strengthens Germany’s artillery capabilities while deepening defense ties with Israel and European allies. Original news
Italian Defense Chief Urges Acceleration of €23 Billion Tank and Vehicle Order
Italian Chief of Defense Staff Gen. Luciano Portolano has called on Leonardo and Rheinmetall to speed up a €23 billion ($24 billion) order for tanks and fighting vehicles to boost military readiness. The Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles joint venture plans to deliver 1,050 Lynx fighting vehicles and 272 Panther tanks. Production is expected to peak in 2031 at 171 units per year, with additional plans for export. The order is part of Italy’s broader effort to modernize its armed forces amid evolving security challenges. Original news
Netherlands to Buy 22 Skyranger Air-Defense Systems for $1.35 Billion
The Netherlands will acquire 22 Skyranger mobile air-defense cannons from Rheinmetall for $1.35 billion to strengthen its defenses against drone threats. The Dutch Ministry of Defence plans to finalize contracts in early 2025, with deliveries starting in 2028. The purchase follows Germany’s agreement in February 2024 to buy 19 Skyranger systems, which will also feature Raytheon’s Stinger missiles. The acquisition is part of a broader effort to modernize European air-defense capabilities amid evolving security challenges. Original news
KNDS, Rheinmetall, Thales move ahead on next-generation tank project
KNDS, Rheinmetall (RHM.DE), and Thales (HO.PA) have signed a shareholder agreement to create a joint company for developing the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), a next-generation main battle tank for Germany and France. Each partner will hold a 25% stake in the new company. The MGCS is designed to replace the Leopard 2 and Leclerc tanks, with a planned introduction by 2040, although France is pushing for deployment by 2035. KNDS France CEO Nicolas Chamussy highlighted the collaboration as a combination of French and German expertise in battle tank technology. The project aims to counter evolving battlefield threats, such as […]
German Patriot units in Poland will be operational by Monday
Two German Patriot air defense units in southeastern Poland will be fully operational by Monday, according to German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. These units are deployed to protect Jasionka, a vital hub for military and humanitarian supplies to Ukraine, and will remain near the Polish-Ukrainian border for six months. Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted Jasionka’s critical role, with over 90% of aid to Ukraine passing through it. Germany will also send Eurofighter jets to Poland this summer for air policing, further strengthening regional defense. This deployment complements Norway’s December stationing of F-35 fighter jets and NASAMS air defense systems […]
India gets an observer seat in the Eurodrone program
India has gained observer status in the Eurodrone program, a collaborative effort involving Italy, France, Germany, and Spain under OCCAR’s management. The program focuses on developing a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drone for ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) missions. Key contributors include Airbus, Dassault Aviation, and Leonardo, with components like the mission computer and radar reviewed during an October visit to Leonardo’s facilities in Italy. The Eurodrone, led by Airbus, will feature a 2.3-ton payload, 40-hour autonomy, and the ability to operate in non-segregated airspace. This marks a significant step for India in advancing its collaboration with […]
German cartel office approves Rheinmetall, Leonardo joint venture
Germany’s cartel office has approved the establishment of a joint venture between Rheinmetall and Italy’s Leonardo, as announced in a statement on Monday. The collaboration, initiated last October, aims to develop and manufacture military combat vehicles, marking a significant step toward consolidating the European defense sector. Cartel office president Andreas Mundt emphasized the importance of both companies in the defense industry but noted no competition concerns arose from the joint venture. The approval was granted quickly, reflecting the strategic significance and compatibility of the partnership. This development highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen European defense capabilities through collaboration. Original news
Italy Acquires Skynex Air Defense System from Rheinmetall
Italy has ordered a Skynex air defense system from Rheinmetall for €73 million, with an option to purchase three additional systems for €204 million. Skynex is designed to counter a wide range of threats, including missiles, artillery, mortars, drones, and loitering munitions. The system includes air surveillance sensors, a command-and-control station, four 35mm Mk3 firing units, ammunition, training, and maintenance. The first system will be delivered in Q2 2026, with optional systems potentially following in 2027. This marks Italy as the first NATO member to adopt Skynex with Mk3 guns, reflecting Rheinmetall’s growing role in NATO defense programs, including combat […]