BERLIN, March 11 (Xinhua) -- German defence supplier Rheinmetall on Wednesday reported strong growth in 2025, with sales surging and the order backlog hitting a record high as European countries ramp up military spending to address security concerns.
The company said that group sales jumped 29 percent to 9.9 billion euros (11.5 billion U.S. dollars) last year, driven by strong demand for defence equipment. Rheinmetall expects this momentum to continue, forecasting sales growth of 40 to 45 percent in 2026. Operating profit rose 33 percent to 1.8 billion euros (2.1 billion dollars), while net profit increased 3 percent to 0.8 billion euros (0.9 billion dollars).
The company's order backlog climbed to 63.8 billion euros (74 billion dollars), the highest level in its history, as Germany and other European members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization increase defence spending to strengthen strategic autonomy. Recent tensions in the Middle East have also contributed to higher defence demand.
"The world is changing rapidly, and Rheinmetall is well prepared," said Armin Papperger, Rheinmetall chief executive officer, in a statement. "We are needed when it comes to strengthening the defence capabilities of Germany and Europe and creating an effective deterrent."
He added that the company had achieved a new record operating result and was well-positioned to capitalize on future large-scale military procurement projects.
Rheinmetall, Germany's largest defence supplier, produces a wide range of equipment, including artillery systems, anti-aircraft guns, tanks, military trucks, ammunition, drones and naval vessels. The company is headquartered in Dusseldorf, with its largest production facility located in the northern state of Lower Saxony. ■
