Hagedorn-NC, with over a century of experience producing industrial nitrocellulose in Lingen an der Ems, will now see part of its output shift from civilian to military use. The move supports Rheinmetall’s growing demand for propellants, particularly for 155mm artillery shells.
“The acquisition helps us to overcome a strategic bottleneck in propellant production,” said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. “It gives us an important source of raw materials and continues the vertical integration along the entire value chain in the production of ammunition.”
Rheinmetall currently manufactures nitrocellulose at three international sites—Wimmis (Switzerland), Murcia (Spain), and Wellington (South Africa)—and the addition of Hagedorn-NC provides a vital new location. Nitrocellulose, derived from cellulose and nitrating acids, is a key component of propellant powders used in various ammunition types.
In the near future, the company plans to adapt part of the Lingen facility for the production of military-grade nitrocellulose, while continuing to supply existing civilian customers. This strategic step is expected to strengthen Rheinmetall’s role as a core ammunition supplier to NATO and ensure long-term supply chain resilience.
Gerd Hofmann, CEO of Hagedorn AG, expressed confidence in the transaction, stating: “I am very pleased to have found a new owner for Hagedorn-NC in Rheinmetall, which will offer the company new prospects and growth opportunities. I am convinced that both companies will work well together.”
Approximately 90 Hagedorn-NC employees will join the Rheinmetall Group, with assurances of future job security. The integration reinforces Rheinmetall’s capacity to deliver complete ammunition systems—from projectile to fuse, explosive charge, and propellant—under one roof.
