Both companies have chosen not to disclose the purchase price. With the acquisition, Rheinmetall aims to strengthen its position as a leading supplier of defence technology in Germany and Europe by adding naval shipbuilding to its portfolio.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, said: “We are creating a naval powerhouse in Germany.” He added: “In future, we will be a relevant player on land, on water, in the air and in space. Rheinmetall is thus developing into a cross-domain system house.”
NVL, formerly Lürssen Defence, operates four shipyards in northern Germany and employs around 2,100 people worldwide. The company reported sales of approximately €1 billion in 2024 and has delivered around 1,000 ships to over fifty navies and coast guards since its founding around 150 years ago.
Friedrich Lürßen, Managing Partner of Lürssen Maritime Beteiligungen GmbH & Co. KG, said: “‘We are delighted to have found a trustworthy and strong partner in Rheinmetall, which can secure a successful future for NVL and its employees.” NVL is also recognised for its research and development in autonomous maritime surface systems.
Papperger emphasised: “With the newly agreed acquisition, we are taking a decisive step forward in consolidating the defence industry in Germany and Europe. Combined with Rheinmetall’s expertise, we are creating a vital German powerhouse for state-of-the-art vessels. The combined capabilities of Rheinmetall and NVL will generate mutual growth and thus strengthen our corporation’s position in the naval sphere.”
The company also sees the acquisition as a response to increasing demand in the naval sector, driven by global conflict situations and rising procurement budgets. Papperger stated: “This acquisition will not only make us a manufacturer of floating platforms. As an integrated naval powerhouse, we want to offer complete system solutions.”
Rheinmetall plans to integrate naval missiles, guns, missile defence systems, sensors, electronics and combat management systems into future programmes. Its established international market access, along with NVL’s infrastructure and expertise, is expected to create synergies with Rheinmetall’s existing Vehicle Systems division.
The expansion will allow Rheinmetall to strengthen its industrial base in northern Germany, reduce the need for new infrastructure investment, and extend capacity for both naval and automotive production. NVL will continue to support the German Navy and navies worldwide, ensuring operational readiness across the life cycle of their fleets.
