Rheinmetall Chief warns "Europe Faces a Decade-long Struggle to Secure its Defence"

His comments, made in the presence of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, come hot on the heels of remarks by US presidential hopeful Donald Trump.

Trump’s statements, suggesting a reluctance to uphold NATO commitments, have reignited concerns over Europe’s security landscape.

Rheinmetall’s response to this pressing issue involves a substantial investment of over $300 million (£274 million) in a new facility, set to produce 200,000 rounds of artillery shells annually.

Papperger stressed the gravity of the situation, asserting that a significant amount of Europe’s ammunition is being diverted to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, leaving little for European defence reserves.

The enormity of the challenge ahead was not lost on Papperger, who emphasised the time required to adequately prepare for potential aggressors targeting NATO.

“We are fine in three, four years – but to be really prepared, we need 10 years,” he stated.

Additionally, Papperger highlighted the need to produce 1.5 million rounds of ammunition within Europe, underlining the magnitude of the task at hand.

The urgency of addressing Europe’s ammunition shortage was further underscored by Dr. Claudia Major of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs.

Major emphasised the continent’s reliance on US support for defence and the imperative of bolstering Europe’s own capabilities.

In response to these challenges, Rheinmetall’s investment represents a significant step towards enhancing Europe’s defence preparedness.

The new facility, located in Unterlüß, will not only boost Germany’s self-reliance in ammunition production but also create 500 new jobs in the region, offering economic benefits alongside strategic advantages.

Chancellor Scholz, echoing the sentiments of Papperger, stressed the importance of deterrence in maintaining peace and stability.

He emphasised the necessity of Europe being adequately prepared to confront potential aggressors, affirming the continent’s commitment to its collective defence.