The acquisition will also expand Rheinmetall’s network with additional capacity for the disposal and recycling of explosives, as well as new research and development expertise in explosives, fuses and pyrotechnics. The parties have agreed to keep the purchase price confidential, and the transaction remains subject to standard regulatory approvals.
Muni Berka operates a second location in Ochtrup, North Rhine-Westphalia, giving Rheinmetall immediate access to the acquired capacities without delays or further investment. Rheinmetall said the current infrastructure allows for direct integration into its operations.
Through the acquisition, Rheinmetall will increase its ability to store raw materials such as explosives, along with projectiles, fuses, primers and propellant modules, collectively referred to as “full shot.” The company stated that it will now be able to store more than one million 155 mm projectiles or 500,000 full shots, a move linked to the new production site in Unterlüß, Lower Saxony, where up to 350,000 artillery shells per year are planned.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, said: “In order to secure Germany’s strategic sovereignty in the field of ammunition production, we are creating a national production site in Unterlüß, Lower-Saxony, which will primarily ensure the supply of the Bundeswehr. By significantly expanding the necessary storage capacities, we are once again investing in the security and defence capabilities of our country and our partner countries.”
The company noted that the Muni Berka sites in Ochtrup and Dietersdorf fit seamlessly into Rheinmetall’s wider production network. The facilities will also be able to store output from Spain, where Rheinmetall has operated seven sites since the acquisition of Expal Munitions in August 2023.
Rheinmetall plans to produce up to 1.5 million artillery projectiles per year by the end of 2030. The company said the enlarged network supports its strategic intention to strengthen security of supply in Germany through expanded domestic value creation.
