Rheinmetall launches mass production of kamikaze drones

German defence company Rheinmetall has begun producing kamikaze drones, CEO Armin Papperger announced during the company’s annual general meeting on Tuesday, May 12.

"We are now starting series production of this system at our Neuss site," Papperger told the online meeting, referring to a drone capable of remaining airborne for up to 70 minutes before crashing into a target and detonating.

A company spokesperson confirmed that the drone model is already being manufactured at a facility in Braunschweig, with production now set to expand to Neuss. The Neuss plant, which previously produced automotive components, is being repurposed as Rheinmetall shifts away from its struggling automotive supply business.

In the future, the Neuss facility will focus on defence manufacturing, including production of the FV-014 drone model. The German armed forces, the Bundeswehr, have already placed an order worth €300 million, with provisions allowing for additional orders. Initial deliveries are expected to begin next year.

According to Rheinmetall, the drones have a range of up to 100 kilometres. Their warhead, including the detonator, weighs approximately four kilograms.

The system is classified as a “loitering munition,” meaning it can remain airborne while awaiting a target before striking. In addition to their primary strike function, the drones can also be used for reconnaissance.

Papperger noted that the system was developed within a few months and is produced entirely within the European Union, with the drone manufactured in Germany and the warhead produced in Italy.

Rheinmetall is entering a competitive field, as companies such as Stark and Helsing have also secured contracts from the Bundeswehr for similar systems.

The company is headquartered in Düsseldorf and operates its largest production facility in Unterlüß, Lower Saxony, where around 4,000 employees work.

By Tamilla Hasanova