Rheinmetall and General Atomics explore transatlantic co-production

Rheinmetall and General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Eurosatory 2026 to explore cooperative production opportunities for Vektrex, a maneuvering 155 mm precision-guided munition. Vektrex extends the range and effectiveness of coalition artillery forces and addresses growing requirements for modernisation, long-range strike capability and munitions replenishment.

Driven by increasing international demand for industrial-scale manufacturing as governments rebuild depleted munition inventories, expand defence industrial capacity, and modernise artillery forces for high-intensity operations, the companies entered into the agreement to assess Vektrex as a cost-effective standoff capability. Vektrex integrates with fielded 39- and 52-calibre 155 mm artillery systems, enabling rapid integration across coalition force structures.

The MoU, signed by GA-EMS President Scott Forney and the CEO of Rheinmetall’s Weapon and Ammunition Division, Roman Köhne, builds on GA-EMS’ continued investment in precision-strike munition development and scalable manufacturing. Rheinmetall’s expertise in munitions and production, combined with its NATO-compliant infrastructure, positions Vektrex for large-scale series production to meet the requirements of Alliance and partner nations.

“Operational demand continues to outpace traditional guided-munition manufacturing output,” Forney said. “This collaboration helps allied industry expand long-range strike capability while leveraging artillery systems already deployed across coalition forces.”
Vektrex delivers manoeuvring strike capability in contested and GPS-degraded environments. Its glide-based aerodynamic design extends engagement range two to three times beyond conventional artillery projectiles while reducing integration risk for fielded artillery formations. The munition provides a lower cost-per-effect alternative to tactical missile systems for forces requiring survivable standoff fires.

“European and allied armed forces require long-range strike capabilities that integrate rapidly, scale efficiently, and remain sustainable through resilient multinational industrial networks,” Köhne said. “This MoU enables both companies to align advanced artillery technologies with established manufacturing infrastructure to support evolving operational requirements.”

The collaboration supports distributed co-production opportunities that can strengthen supply chains, accelerate fielding timelines, and expand industrial participation across allied defence sectors. As military requirements shift toward longer-range and higher-volume fires, Vektrex provides a scalable modernisation path for fielded artillery systems without requiring new launcher, propellant infrastructure, or logistics.

Rheinmetall

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