-
€249.99 Incl. VAT
Our list of the largest defense companies in Germany gives you comprehensive insights into the highest-revenue players in the German defense industry. In addition to current revenue and employee figures, you will find valuable information on industry focus, managing directors, and contact details. The data is conveniently available as an Excel file for direct download.
Brief Summary
Short and clear: The largest German defense company is Rheinmetall AG, according to the exclusive Researchgermany list of the largest German defense companies. With €7,176 million in revenue in 2023 and around 28,000 employees, Rheinmetall is the leading specialist for defense technology, vehicles, ammunition, air defense, as well as drone and UAV systems. Unlike Airbus, whose defense division makes up only part of the group, Rheinmetall is clearly focused on defense and security technology.
Rheinmetall at a Glance
Rheinmetall AG, headquartered in Düsseldorf, is a global leader in defense and security technology. In fiscal year 2023, the company increased its revenue to €7,176 million (previous year: €6,410 million). The strategy is clearly geared toward expanding defense business in the areas of:
- Vehicles & Systems (e.g., Puma infantry fighting vehicle, Boxer armored personnel carrier)
- Ammunition & Weapons (artillery, medium- and large-caliber ammunition)
- Air Defense (including Skyguard systems, mobile air defense)
- Drones & UAV Technologies
A key driver of growth is the increased demand for military equipment due to geopolitical tensions and Europe’s reorientation of security policy.
Comparison of the Largest German Defense Companies (Revenue 2023)
Below are the largest German defense companies in comparison – based on the Researchgermany ranking:
| Ranking | Company | Sector / Focus | Revenue 2023 (€m) | Employees 2023 | Headquarters | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rheinmetall AG | Defense technology, vehicles, ammunition, air defense | 7,176 | 28,054 | Düsseldorf | rheinmetall.com |
| 2 | Airbus Defence & Space (Airbus Operations GmbH) | Aerospace, military systems | 11,696* | 14,004 | Hamburg | airbus.com |
| 3 | MTU Aero Engines AG | Military engines | 5,363 | 12,170 | Munich | mtu.de |
| 4 | Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH | Military aviation | 4,200 | 446 | Hallbergmoos | eurofighter.com |
| 5 | HENSOLDT AG | Radar, optronics, electronic warfare | 1,847 | 6,907 | Taufkirchen | hensoldt.net |
*Note: Airbus reports total revenue of €11,696 million in Germany; however, only part of this relates to the military sector. The majority comes from civil aircraft manufacturing (A320 family, A330, A350).
Image source: Getty Images, 09.09.2025
Last Updated on 4 months ago
