The German company Rheinmetall and the American Lockheed Martin have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the aim of advancing the creation of a joint venture intended to launch the first European center of excellence for the manufacturing, integration, and supply of ATACMS ballistic missiles.
With the backing of the governments of the United States and Germany, the two defense sector companies seek to strengthen missile production in European territory and improve coordination between NATO forces and European partners, taking advantage of the Atlantic Alliance summit being held these days in Ankara, Turkey, as a framework for the signing of the agreement.
The chosen location will be Rheinmetall's plant in Unterluess, in the federal state of Lower Saxony, one of the group's most relevant sites, where around 4,000 people already work. Among its main activities are the manufacture of weapon systems and ammunition, as well as the design, production, and maintenance of tracked vehicles.
The pact contemplates that the new infrastructures necessary to produce rocket engines will conclude their construction within a reduced timeframe, while the production of these engines and other elements for guided missiles will begin in 2027.
Until then, and given the high demand for ATACMS missiles, Lockheed Martin will keep its current production line in Camden, Arkansas, operational until industrial capabilities in Germany are fully developed.
"This alliance marks a milestone for European security and industrial cooperation between allies. By combining Lockheed Martin's unparalleled missile expertise with Rheinmetall's manufacturing excellence, we will deliver combat-proven capabilities to our allies faster and more efficiently," stated Lockheed Martin International President Jay Pitman.
"By establishing ATACMS production at the Rheinmetall plant in Unterluess, we are creating new capabilities for Germany and Europe, ensuring supply to our customers, and strengthening our autonomy in defense policy. We are pleased that Rheinmetall has been selected to establish and operate the first and only guided ATACMS missile production plant outside the United States," indicated Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger.