Overview
- An analysis commissioned by Verband Automotive Thüringen reviewed 150 defense suppliers and found more than 40 with capabilities that align with automotive supply chains, spanning metals, plastics, electronics, IT and engineering.
- KNDS has taken over the former Görlitz wagon plant to produce tank components, and Volkswagen confirms talks on defense uses for its Osnabrück site as it evaluates future options for the factory.
- About 75% of companies reported they are active in defense or considering entry, according to a recent sector survey cited by association chief Rico Chmelik.
- BILD reports that ZF is working with Rolls-Royce Power Systems on an electrified transmission for the planned Franco‑German MGCS tank program, underscoring concrete crossover projects.
- Experts caution that entering defense requires new certifications and customer relationships, with the most realistic routes being component supply, partnerships with incumbents, and political support to connect SMEs with primes such as Rheinmetall, Airbus and KNDS.