Germany Overtakes US in Ammunition Production Capacity
Germany has surpassed the United States in ammunition production capacity, according to Rheinmetall's CEO, as Europe accelerates defense self-reliance amid concerns over U.S. commitment. The German defense firm has significantly increased output of both medium-caliber and artillery ammunition since 2022. European nations are rebuilding military stockpiles after years of reliance on U.S. defense support, driven by geopolitical shifts and reduced American focus on Europe. Germany aims to field the strongest conventional army in Europe by 2039, marking a strategic shift from its post-WWII demilitarization stance.
- ▪Rheinmetall has more than quadrupled its annual production of medium-caliber ammunition and increased artillery round output from 70,000 to 1.1 million per year.
- ▪European countries are boosting defense production following concerns about U.S. reliability under the Trump administration, especially regarding NATO and Ukraine support.
- ▪The U.S. has shifted strategic focus toward the Indo-Pacific region, reducing its military emphasis on Europe.
- ▪Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has prioritized increased defense spending since taking office in March 2025.
- ▪Germany plans to build the strongest conventional army in Europe by 2039, a century after the start of World War II.
- ▪Ammunition demand remains high across Western militaries, particularly for artillery systems used in combat and precision strikes.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
By Ellie CookSenior Defense ReporterShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.Germany can now produce more ammunition than the U.S., says the boss of German defense giant Rheinmetall, as a massive rearmament campaign gets underway in Europe.Rheinmetall has more than quadrupled its annual production of medium-caliber ammunition, and ramped up output of artillery rounds to 1.1 million — up from 70,000, chief executive Armin Papperger told reporters last week according to German media.Newsweek has sought confirmation of the remarks from the weapons manufacturer.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Newsweek.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Newsweek
