Rheinmetall AG plans to establish its first defense manufacturing facility in Japan. CEO Armin Papperger disclosed the strategy in an interview with the Nikkei newspaper.
Papperger will visit Japan soon to discuss a potential joint venture with government and industry leaders. The proposed facility would serve both the domestic Japanese market and international exports.
The move represents a significant expansion for the German firm, which currently produces only automotive components in Japan. No specific partners or business plans have been finalized.
Rheinmetall shares rose approximately 2.6% following the announcement. The stock became a leading gainer on the DAX index during trading.