The German conglomerate Rheinmetall and the Dutch company Destinus are creating a joint venture, Rheinmetall Destinus Strike Systems, to produce cruise missiles and ballistic artillery.
The project has been named Rheinmetall Destinus Strike Systems. Production is planned to begin in late 2026 or early 2027.
This was reported by bb.lv, citing the Financial Times.
Experts will focus on cruise missiles and ballistic artillery. The main goal is to meet the needs of German and international clients. The new Ruta Block 2 missile will be able to hit targets at a distance of over 700 km.
This is less than that of the American Tomahawk missiles; however, Europe needs its own resource. According to a report by European military officials, Russia produces 1,100 cruise missiles per year, while the European Union currently produces only 300 units.
"Trump Factor"
The rapid development of Europe's own defense industry began against the backdrop of the shaky policies of U.S. President Donald Trump regarding EU and NATO defense. Europeans do not want to risk their own security, and the war in Iran has proven that the U.S. arsenals are not bottomless.
Thus, Germany and other countries have intensified the development of their own capabilities. Rheinmetall is entering the cruise missile niche for the first time. Previously, this area was dominated by the pan-European group MBDA.
European countries are increasingly developing their own defense technologies, trying to reduce dependence on the U.S. and strengthen NATO's military potential.
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