Rheinmetall Celebrates Historic Handover: New Era for Várpalota’s Ammunition Factory in Hungary
On 29 July 2024, the Düsseldorf-based tech group Rheinmetall commemorated the formal acquisition of its cutting-edge 30mm ammunition manufacturing facility in Várpalota, Hungary.
The event occurred in the presence of Hungarian Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky and Rheinmetall AG’s CEO, Armin Papperger.
The new production site in Várpalota marks a considerable achievement in Rheinmetall’s growth strategy. It emphasizes the company’s dedication to delivering advanced technologies that bolster the defence capabilities of its allies. The factory is engineered to produce 30mm ammunition for the KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), which is set to be manufactured in Zalaegerszeg and supplied to the Hungarian military. Production at the Várpalota facility is slated to commence in October 2024. Additionally, munitions for battle tanks and artillery, along with igniters, will be part of the products produced in Várpalota during a subsequent phase. In its final expansion, the site will span approximately 150 hectares.
During his inaugural speech, Armin Papperger underscored the significance of the new facility for Rheinmetall and the Hungarian operations: “The launch of this state-of-the-art ammunition plant in Várpalota is a definitive indication of our commitment to innovation and superior quality. This establishment will not only enhance the defence capabilities of our international partners and in Hungary, but will also advance the economic growth of the region.”
In his remarks, Hungarian Defence Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky highlighted the strategic relevance of the partnership with Rheinmetall, stressing the collaborative efforts in bolstering national security and the defence sector.
The newly established factory in Várpalota features cutting-edge technology and will generate over 200 job opportunities in the region, significantly benefiting the local economy. The production of the Lynx IFV and other Lynx variants further reinforces the advancement of the Hungarian defence industry. Rheinmetall continues its legacy of enhancing global security through technological advancement and robust alliances.
