The companies said the agreement, supported by the United States and German governments, marks the next step toward creating a joint venture. The planned venture would establish the first European center of excellence for manufacturing, integration and distribution of ATACMS across NATO and allied European forces.
“This partnership marks a watershed moment for European security and allied industrial cooperation. By combining Lockheed Martin’s unmatched missile expertise with Rheinmetall’s manufacturing excellence, we’ll deliver combat-proven capabilities faster and more efficiently to our allies,” said Jay Pitman, president, Lockheed Martin International.
“Bringing ATACMS co-production to Germany is a strong signal for Europe’s defense industry and for NATO’s long-term resilience. This partnership combines proven U.S. technology with European manufacturing strength, creating industrial value in Germany while expanding the capacity allies need to meet growing security demands,” said Dennis Goege, chief executive for Europe at Lockheed Martin.
Armin Papperger, CEO Rheinmetall AG, said the agreement would support defence capability in Germany and Europe. “Our aim is to strengthen the defence capabilities of Germany and Europe. Together with our friends at Lockheed Martin, we are now establishing the industrial base in Germany for modern defence systems, which are in great demand by the armed forces of Europe. By establishing ATACMS production at Rheinmetall’s Unterluess site, we are creating new capabilities for Germany and Europe, securing supplies for our customers and strengthening our autonomy in defence policy. We are grateful that Rheinmetall has been selected to set up and operate the world’s first and only production facility for ATACMS guided missiles outside the United States.”
Rheinmetall’s Unterluess facility was commissioned more than 125 years ago and is one of the company’s most important sites. About 4,000 employees work there.
The site’s core competencies include the production of weapon systems and ammunition, as well as the development, manufacture and maintenance of tracked vehicles. Unterluess is also the largest privately owned firing range in Europe.
Last year, Rheinmetall put into operation the “Werk Niedersachsen”, described as one of the most modern production facilities for artillery ammunition. A rocket motor factory is nearing completion, with production of rocket motors and guided missile components scheduled to begin as early as 2027.
The companies said co-producing ATACMS missiles on European soil would support local capability and increase allied deterrence. They said the partnership would also contribute to economies on both sides of the Atlantic.
ATACMS has been used extensively in combat and has demonstrated operational effectiveness, precision and mission reliability in high-intensity conflicts, according to the announcement. Lockheed Martin said it will continue operating its current production line in Camden, Arkansas, until the transition is complete.
The agreement underscores Lockheed Martin’s commitment to Europe and to long-term co-production ties with European industry and customers. The company said it has been a strategic partner for Europe’s defense and security for more than 75 years and remains committed to supporting customers and partners across the region.
