Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin plan joint ATACMS production in Europe
Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin intend to establish a joint venture in Europe for ATACMS missile production. The goal is to create a European center of excellence for NATO allies.
German defense contractor Rheinmetall and U.S. firm Lockheed Martin have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance joint production of the U.S. Army's ATACMS missile in Europe. The agreement, signed at the NATO Summit Defense Industry Forum, aims to address Europe's growing demand for locally manufactured precision munitions.
The plan involves establishing a joint venture that will serve as a European center of excellence for the manufacturing, integration, and deployment of ATACMS for NATO and allied European forces. The initiative is backed by both the U.S. and German governments.
Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger highlighted that the project strengthens Europe's defense capabilities, making Rheinmetall's Unterlüß facility the first ATACMS production site outside the United States. As part of this investment, Rheinmetall is currently constructing a missile motor factory in Unterlüß, slated for operation in 2027.
Lockheed Martin representatives stated the partnership will accelerate the delivery of combat-proven and precise weapon systems to European allies. They added that the company will continue operating its existing ATACMS production line in Arkansas, USA, until the transition to Europe is complete.