Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall have agreed to expand their existing cooperation. A corresponding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has now been signed.
Building on their existing partnership, the companies intend to expand the scope of their cooperation in order to act as a European competence center for the production and distribution of missiles and rockets “to strengthen Europe’s security and independence”, according to a recent press release. Rheinmetall will primarily contribute its market access in many countries, and Lockheed Martin its expertise as a manufacturer of missiles and rockets.
Led by Rheinmetall and based in Germany, the competence center will operate primarily in Germany and other European countries.
The companies have now begun to define further steps for the establishment of the competence center. Implementation is subject to the approval of the US and German governments.
Ray Piselli, Vice President International at Lockheed Martin: “This partnership reflects our commitment to promoting transatlantic security and providing proven, state-of-the-art capabilities to our allies. This is a step toward helping our European customers to further their NATO-commitments. By combining Rheinmetall’s extensive expertise with Lockheed Martin’s advanced missile technologies, we are creating a strong foundation to meet evolving security requirements. This partnership will both strengthen the defense industry and create jobs in the U.S. and Europe.”
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “Two strong partners have come together. We are pleased to take the next step in our proven cooperation with our friends from the USA. Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall complement each other perfectly with their specific capabilities and technological expertise. We want to play a significant role in the growing European market with missiles and rockets, for which we see a considerable demand. Rheinmetall will be involved not only in sales but also with significant production shares.”
Dennis Goege, Vice President and Chief Executive Europe at Lockheed Martin: “Europe is central to our international partnerships and this initiative is an important next step. By deepening trusted relationships with industry in Germany and across the region, we are supporting the European defense industry and enhancing security through shared innovation and technology.”
The two companies are already working together. As part of the international F-35 supply chain, Rheinmetall begins production of the first of around 400 F-35 fuselage center sections in July 2 (-> First F-35 fuselage center sections arrive at the plant in Weeze). Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin also joined forces in 2023 to jointly develop the GMARS multiple rocket launcher system, which is intended to meet the growing demand for long-range rocket artillery. It was presented to the public for the first time in summer 2024 at the Eurosatory trade fair in Paris and was recently presented to interested customer countries as part of the so-called “GMARS Summit”.
Here for more news about Lockheed Martin and here to further reports about Rheinmetall.
