Lockheed Martin Partners With Rheinmetall For European Rocket Centre Of Excellence
Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall have announced their intent to jointly create a European centre of excellence for the manufacturing and distribution of various rockets and missiles to be located in Germany.
According to the two companies, Rheinmetall will lead operations of the centre of excellence, which will primarily operate in Germany and other countries. The companies are now working together to identify the best method to establish the centre of excellence, with the plans subject to both U.S. and German review.
“Two strong partners have found each other. We are delighted to be taking the next step in our proven cooperation with our friends in the USA. Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall complement each other perfectly with their specific capabilities and technological expertise”, said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. “We want to play a significant role in the growing European market with rockets and missiles, where we see a considerable demand. Rheinmetall will not only be involved in sales but will also contribute significantly to the production”.
Rheinmetall has previously partnered with Lockheed Martin on the development of the GMARS multiple rocket artillery system based on Rheinmetall’s HX 8×8 truck, with the system unveiled at the 2024 Eurosatory arms exhibition in Paris. Rheinmetall is also in the process of completing its production facility for F-35 center fuselage sections in Weeze, Germany, with Lockheed Martin saying it expects the Weeze facility to begin building the first of approximately 400 center fuselage sections in July.
Dennis Goege, vice president and chief executive for Europe at Lockheed Martin said:
“Europe is central to our international partnerships, and this initiative marks an important next step. By deepening trusted ties with industry in Germany and across the region, we are supporting Europe’s defence industrial base and enhancing security through shared innovation and technology.”
“This partnership reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing transatlantic security and delivering proven, cutting-edge capabilities to European allies”, said Ray Piselli, vice president, International at Lockheed Martin. “This is a step toward helping our European customers meet their NATO commitments and by combining Rheinmetall’s deep regional expertise with Lockheed Martin’s advanced missile technologies, we’re creating a powerful foundation to meet evolving security needs. This relationship will strengthen both defense industries and create jobs in the US and Europe.”