Diehl Defence is significantly expanding its operations in Nonnweiler-Maasberg, Germany, with the inauguration of a new flight missile integration center. This marks the first phase of a substantial site expansion project, with potential total investments reaching approximately €500 million – a doubling of initial estimates. The company also anticipates continued growth in its workforce.
Expansion Driven by Global Demand
Diehl is currently making large-scale investments across all its locations, fueled by increased global – and particularly German – demand for defense goods. The newly opened integration center will initially focus on producing various versions of the IRIS-T missile. Notably, the ground-based variant of this missile is currently being used by Ukraine for air defense against Russian attacks.
Construction Underway for Additional Facilities
Construction has already begun on three additional buildings at the Maasberg site. According to Thomas Bodenmüller, Diehl Defence’s Chief Financial Officer, these will include further manufacturing facilities for other product lines, as well as a new logistics building at the company’s second Nonnweiler location in Mariahütte.
Investment Surpasses Initial Projections
Diehl Defence originally planned to invest around €200 million in its Nonnweiler facilities. However, current investments already stand at approximately €350 million, according to Bodenmüller. Given the continued rise in demand for the company’s missiles and weapon systems, an additional €100 million is being planned to further expand production capacity.
Workforce Expansion Anticipated
The expansion is also driving job growth. Diehl Defence’s employee count has already surpassed 800, with a 20 percent increase in the past year alone. The company anticipates hiring another 100 employees this year, and potentially reaching 1100 to 1200 employees by 2028, with a particular focus on recruiting workers from the automotive industry, according to site manager Ralf Schlaak.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of missile will be produced at the new integration center?
The new center will initially produce various versions of the IRIS-T missile.
How much is Diehl Defence investing in its Nonnweiler facilities?
Current investments already stand at approximately €350 million, with plans for an additional €100 million investment.
How many new jobs are expected to be created?
The company anticipates hiring another 100 employees this year, and potentially reaching 1100 to 1200 employees by 2028.
As Diehl Defence continues to expand, will this increased production capacity lead to further contracts and partnerships with international allies?
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