Rheinmetall Begins Production as Supplier for Stealth Bomber

The German defense contractor Rheinmetall has officially launched operations at its new facility in Weeze, North Rhine-Westphalia, where it will serve as a supplier for the advanced stealth fighter, the F-35. This facility, which represents an investment of approximately 200 million euros, is set to produce vital components for the aircraft.

Rheinmetall's CEO announced that production could commence as early as tomorrow, marking a significant step in the company's expansion into the aerospace sector. The F-35, known for its low radar visibility, is primarily manufactured in the United States, with Rheinmetall now stepping in to supply key parts, particularly the fuselage sections.

The F-35 fighter jet is widely recognized as one of the most sophisticated military aircraft globally, and Germany has ordered 35 units to replace its aging Tornado fleet. Rheinmetall's involvement is a strategic move that underscores its transition from its core business of artillery, tanks, and munitions to broader aerospace applications, including drones and satellite technology.

Under normal operations, the Weeze facility aims to produce 30 fuselage sections annually, with the potential to increase output through additional shifts. The company's CEO expressed optimism about future orders, indicating that Germany may pursue further acquisitions of the F-35.

The manufacturing of these two-ton components involves complex technical processes, with the first fuselage section scheduled for delivery in the fall of 2026 to the U.S. for final assembly. This collaboration with prominent American defense firms, such as Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin, is seen as an essential aspect of Rheinmetall's growth strategy following the increased demand for military capabilities in light of recent geopolitical tensions.

Currently, around 200 employees are working at the Weeze site, with projections to increase that number to over 400 by the time full production ramps up in 2026. Rheinmetall has secured a framework contract for 400 fuselage sections to be manufactured over the next 17 to 20 years, ensuring long-term production stability.

At the inauguration event, NRW's Minister-President highlighted the importance of the transatlantic defense alliance, stating that Rheinmetall's partnership with U.S. defense contractors serves as a testament to the strength and reliability of international cooperation in defense.