Rüstung: Rheinmetall erschließt Weltall als neues Geschäftsfeld

In a strategic move, German defense contractor Rheinmetall has begun the serial production of space-based satellites as a new business venture. Following extensive planning and setup in Neuss, the company has transitioned into the industrial phase of manufacturing Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites. These satellites, produced in collaboration with Finnish satellite operator Iceye, are capable of providing precise images of enemy troop movements and positions, even in low visibility conditions.

Rheinmetall aims to produce around 50 SAR satellites per year in Neuss, with the first satellite scheduled to launch in early 2027 using a SpaceX rocket. The collected data will be sold to the German military and other armies. Rheinmettal has secured an exclusive deal with the Bundeswehr, valued at 1.7 billion euros, which grants the military preferential access to SAR satellite imagery.

In addition to its traditional defense products including artillery, tanks, and ammunition, the company is now expanding its offerings to include ship and aircraft components, as well as a growing drone business.