Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall Expand Strategic Cooperation in Europe

Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall have signed an extension to their 2024 Memorandum of Understanding to deepen their collaboration by creating a European centre of excellence for rocket and missile production. The centre, to be led by Rheinmetall and based in Germany, aims to strengthen Europe’s defence capabilities and help NATO members meet growing security demands.

The initiative will combine Lockheed Martin’s missile technologies with Rheinmetall’s regional production and market reach. Pending U.S. and German government approval, the centre is intended to serve as a key distribution and manufacturing hub across Europe.

This partnership builds on past cooperation, including their joint GMARS rocket system project. Rheinmetall will also soon begin producing F-35 fuselage centre sections in Weeze, marking its entry into high-tech military aerospace manufacturing.

Executives from both companies emphasized the collaboration’s role in enhancing transatlantic defence ties, regional job creation, and the modernization of European military infrastructure.