Rheinmetall’s new Telford factory brings tank barrel production back to the UK

German arms giant opens UK weapons factory

The facility belongs to German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and has already helped create 100 jobs. 

The company expects its workforce to grow as production ramps up, with staff making components for 120mm and 155mm weapon systems, including the RCH 155 artillery system and future platforms.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting visited the site for its official opening on Thursday. 

He praised the speed of the project, saying the factory had gone from an empty plot to operational production in eight months. 

"One hundred skilled jobs in world class manufacturing and the return of large calibre weapon production to UK soil for the first time in 20 years - this is what defence as an engine for growth looks like."

Rheinmetall chief outlines plans for further UK investment

Employees recruited in Telford received specialist training at Rheinmetall’s German facility before production began. 

Their preparation covered precision engineering, quality assurance and the processes involved in manufacturing weapons, according to the BBC.

The new site adds to Rheinmetall’s existing work with the British military. The company supplies vehicles for the UK’s Boxer programme and is involved in upgrading Challenger tanks already in service.

Rheinmetall chief executive Armin Papperger said the opening represented an important step in strengthening Britain’s industrial capabilities. 

He also reaffirmed the company’s intention to invest further in the UK and expand its operations in the years ahead.

"We are committed to investing in the UK for the long term, expanding our industrial footprint and working together to deliver the capabilities needed for the future."