Rheinmetall wants to launch the production of its own rocket engines, which can be used not only for guided missiles to feed to the M142 HIMARS and PULS artillery systems but also for more powerful weapons with an operational range of 50 to 500 kilometers, and even up to 2,000 kilometers in the future. In addition, the company also intends to build its own plant for the production of space reconnaissance satellites.
These plans were outlined by Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger during a conference call with analysts on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Hartpunkt reports.
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Speaking of the industry segment of engines for various types of missiles, Papperger says the adjustment of the production process may take up to two years, mostly due to problems with the acquisition of manufacturing equipment.
The company anticipates that the rocket engines will be in demand sufficient to load the lines with orders, including from the Bundeswehr — given the global shortage of rocket boosters for missile weapons. To complement the complex, Rheinmetall plans to build its own center for testing and certification of rocket engines in the future.
As for the satellites, the German giant bears plans to build a new high-tech plant in Neuss. The facility will specialize in making "components for satellites" of an unnamed nomenclature, and at the same time produce electronics and other components for loitering munitions.
Rheinmetall already has a stake in the capital of the Finnish satellite manufacturer and operator ICEYE. Together, these two entities want to implement a joint space industry project, the agreement will initially aim to manufacture and launch at least six satellites into low-Earth orbit. Later on, six to ten more satellites will be produced, this time in Germany, and launched into LEO, too. If this project is implemented, it could bring in €200 million, Papperger explained.
Interestingly, Germany already has two major satellite manufacturers, Airbus Defence & Space and Bremen-based OHB; however, Airbus is currently planning to cut 2,000 employees in its satellite department because of the problematic situation with orders.
In the 2024 financial year, Rheinmetall's consolidated sales volume totaled €9.7 billion, up 36% from the previous year:
- Vehicle Systems division sales grew by 45% to €3.79 billion,
- Weapons and Ammunition division sales grew by 58% to €2.7 billion, and
- Electronic Solutions division grew by 31% to 1.73 billion euros.
At the same time, Rheinmetall's backlog of commissioned orders has already reached a record-high €55 billion.
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