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Rheinmetall

Rheinmetall AG is a German listed technology group headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Rheinmetall AG is a German listed technology group headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany. Founded in 1889, it operates in the security and defence sector and also has automotive-related businesses. The company is part of Germany’s DAX index and serves markets on land, at sea, in the air, and in space.

History

Rheinmetall was founded in 1889 in Germany under the original name Rheinische Metallwaaren- und Maschinenfabrik Actiengesellschaft. It has grown into a multinational industrial group with a long-standing presence in defence and engineering.

Business activities

Rheinmetall’s defence business covers systems and products for military use across multiple domains. Its automotive-related businesses supply components and systems for vehicle manufacturers and related industrial markets.

Corporate structure and market position

Rheinmetall AG is the listed parent company of the Rheinmetall Group and is headquartered in Düsseldorf. The company joined Germany’s DAX index in March 2023, reflecting its position among major German blue-chip companies.

Operations and products

The company’s portfolio includes defence systems, military vehicles, weapons, ammunition, air defence systems, and simulation products. It also manufactures automotive components and power systems products.

Key facts

  • Rheinmetall was founded in 1889 as Rheinische Metallwaaren- und Maschinenfabrik Actiengesellschaft.
  • Its headquarters and registered office are in Düsseldorf, Germany.
  • The company describes itself as an integrated technology group and cross-domain systems supplier for security and defence.
  • Rheinmetall provides products and services for land, sea, air, and space applications.
  • Rheinmetall AG has been included in the DAX since 20 March 2023.
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Canadian context

Rheinmetall matters to Canadian readers mainly through global defence and automotive supply chains, as well as international security and procurement markets.

Frequently asked questions

What is Rheinmetall?
Rheinmetall AG is a German public technology group focused on defence and automotive-related industrial products.
Where is Rheinmetall headquartered?
Rheinmetall is headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany.
When was Rheinmetall founded?
Rheinmetall was founded in 1889.
What does Rheinmetall make?
Its products include defence systems, military vehicles, weapons, ammunition, air defence systems, and automotive components.
Is Rheinmetall on the stock market?
Yes. Rheinmetall AG is a listed company and has been part of the DAX since 20 March 2023.

References

  1. Rheinmetallhttps://www.rheinmetall.com/en/company/about-rheinmetall
    Supports: Founding year, original name, headquarters, company description, DAX inclusion, parent company role
  2. Rheinmetallhttps://www.rheinmetall.com/en
    Supports: Current company description and business scope across land, sea, air, and space
  3. Rheinmetall Investor Relationshttps://ir.rheinmetall.com/investor-relations/equity-story
    Supports: Integrated international technology group description
  4. Forbeshttps://www.forbes.com/companies/rheinmetall/
    Supports: Company overview, headquarters, business segments, founder and founding date