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Armin Papperger

Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Rheinmetall AG

Search every verified Armin Papperger interview, podcast appearance, and on-the-record quote — each transcript cross-checked by AI and human review to confirm speaker identity. Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, discussed the company's expansion of arms and ammunition production in recent interviews. He stated that missile stockpiles remain critically low due to production bottlenecks in rocket engines and warheads, and emphasized the need to accelerate output to restore Germany, Europe, and NATO to sufficient defense levels. Papperger noted that Rheinmetall's order book stands at approximately 81–82 billion euros, with expectations it could exceed 100 billion by year-end, and that the company plans to invest 30 billion euros over six years. He also mentioned that Rheinmetall is growing its workforce by about 10,000 net new employees annually, aiming for 70,000 by 2030, with a supply chain of 210,000 people. Papperger addressed future weapons systems, saying that humanoid robots are in development at a research center in Bremen, though no series products exist yet. He highlighted space technology as a key investment area, particularly satellite construction and data processing for military decision-making. Regarding the Skyranger air defense system, he said serial deliveries are scheduled for 2027 with only minimal delays. He also commented on the broader defense industry, saying that gunpowder production has increased significantly since before Germany's Zeitenwende, and that the company operates multiple shifts, including weekends, to meet demand. On a potential stake in competitor KNDS, Papperger said he would not be interested unless he could obtain a majority share.

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