Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall deepen their partnership to bolster European rocket and missile production

Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall announced on 30 April 2025 that they are expanding their already-existing co-operation and have extended their memorandum of understanding (MoU) from June 2024.

The two companies’ aim is to extend the scope of their collaboration in order to establish a European centre of excellence for the manufacturing and distribution of various rockets and missiles to enhance the security and self-reliance of Europe. The centre of excellence, to be based in Germany, will be led by Rheinmetall and will primarily operate in Germany and other European countries.

The companies have already begun working together to identify the best method to establish the centre of excellence and plans of the resulting review will be subject to approval by the US and German governments.

“With this project, two leading defence suppliers are joining forces to work together in the growing military market for the benefit of their customers: Rheinmetall with its market access in many countries as a leading system house in Europe, and Lockheed Martin as an internationally leading manufacturer defence technology and mission systems,” the two companies stated in a joint press release.

Lockheed Martin has been a partner to the German defence industry for over 50 years and is continuing to expand these partnerships through co-operation with companies such as Rheinmetall that have highly developed technological capabilities. For example, as part of the international supply chain for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter programme, Rheinmetall will begin producing the first of approximately 400 F-35 fuselage centre sections in July 2025.

Back in 2023 Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin joined forces to develop the GMARS multiple rocket launcher system, designed to meet the growing demand for long-range rocket artillery. This was unveiled to the public for the first time in Paris in the summer of 2024 at the Eurosatory defence exhibition.

“This partnership reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing transatlantic security and delivering proven, cutting-edge capabilities to European allies,” said Ray Piselli, vice president for international business at Lockheed Martin. “This is a step toward helping our European customers meet their NATO commitments and by combining Rheinmetall’s deep regional expertise with Lockheed Martin’s advanced missile technologies, we’re creating a powerful foundation to meet evolving security needs. This relationship will strengthen both defence industries and create jobs in the US and Europe.”

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, added, “Two strong partners have found each other. We are delighted to be taking the next step in our proven co-operation with our friends in the USA. Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall complement each other perfectly with their specific capabilities and technological expertise. We want to play a significant role in the growing European market with rockets and missiles, where we see a considerable demand. Rheinmetall will not only be involved in sales but will also contribute significantly to the production.”