Lockheed Martin has announced an expanded partnership with Rheinmetall to establish a European center of excellence for missile and rocket systems, based in Germany. The agreement, confirmed through an extended Memorandum of Understanding signed in April 2025, builds on previous collaboration between the U.S. defense contractor and the German defense group.
In a statement, Tim Cahill, President of Missiles and Fire Control at Lockheed Martin, said, "This significant milestone marks a major step forward in our collaboration, as we work together to establish a European centre of excellence for missile and rocket systems in Germany." Lockheed Martin described the move as part of its broader effort to enhance regional defense capabilities, particularly among NATO allies.
"By establishing this centre of excellence, we’re strengthening our ability to help customers meet their commitments and address the evolving security landscape," Cahill said. The new facility will be led by Rheinmetall and is intended to serve Germany and other European nations. The companies are currently reviewing implementation plans, which will be subject to approval by both the U.S. and German governments.
Ray Piselli, Lockheed Martin’s vice president for international operations, added: "This partnership reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing transatlantic security and delivering proven, cutting-edge capabilities to European allies." According to Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, the collaboration aligns with growing European demand for advanced weapons systems. "Two strong partners have found each other," Papperger said. "Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall complement each other perfectly with their specific capabilities and technological expertise."
The companies previously unveiled their jointly developed GMARS multiple rocket launcher system at Eurosatory 2024, designed to meet European demand for long-range precision fires. Rheinmetall is also a key participant in the global F-35 fighter supply chain and is preparing to begin production of center fuselage sections at its new facility in Weeze, Germany.
Dennis Goege, Lockheed Martin’s vice president and chief executive for Europe, said the expanded partnership supports long-term regional stability. "By deepening trusted ties with industry in Germany and across the region, we are supporting Europe’s defence industrial base and enhancing security through shared innovation and technology." The center of excellence is expected to play a key role in the production and distribution of advanced missile systems across Europe.
In addition to the establishment of the center, both companies are keen to expand their cooperation further. The Rheinmetall-led competence center will operate primarily in Germany and other European countries. Implementation of this project is also subject to approval by the US and German governments.
Rheinmetall's CEO emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, "Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall complement each other perfectly thanks to their specific skills and technological expertise." This collaboration aims to solidify their roles in the growing military market, which has seen increasing demand for advanced missiles and projectiles.
Lockheed Martin has been a partner of German industry for over 50 years and continues to build on these partnerships by working with companies like Rheinmetall that have advanced technological capabilities. As part of the international F-35 fighter supply chain, Rheinmetall will begin production of the first of approximately 400 F-35 center fuselage sections in July 2025.
In 2023, Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin joined forces to jointly develop the GMARS multiple launch rocket system, which was first presented to the public in the summer of 2024 at the Eurosatory exhibition. This system was designed to meet the growing need for long-range rocket artillery in Europe.
Rheinmetall is also recognized as one of the main suppliers of military materials to Ukraine and has joint ventures with the country, further showcasing the importance of this partnership in a broader geopolitical context.
The establishment of this European center of excellence is expected to strengthen the defense industry in both the U.S. and Europe, creating jobs and enhancing security through shared innovation. As the global security landscape continues to evolve, the collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall is poised to play a critical role in addressing the challenges faced by NATO allies.
With the ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe and the heightened focus on defense capabilities, this partnership could not have come at a more crucial time. The commitment to advancing transatlantic security through joint efforts in technology and production is a clear indication of the direction in which both companies are headed.
As they move forward, the successful implementation of their plans will not only enhance their operational capabilities but also contribute to the overall stability and security of the European defense landscape. The center of excellence is set to become a key player in the production and distribution of advanced missile systems, responding to the increasing demands of modern warfare.
In conclusion, as Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall embark on this ambitious project, the defense community will be watching closely to see how their collaboration evolves and what impact it will have on regional and global security dynamics.
