Europe requires decade to fully arm itself, warns head of defence firm

Armin Papperger, the head of Germany’s largest defence company, Rheinmetall, disclosed to the BBC that Europe would need approximately 10 years to attain complete readiness in defense.

Papperger highlighted the current depletion of ammunition stocks, emphasising the necessity for substantial preparation against potential threats.

These remarks were made during a significant event attended by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at the foundation-laying ceremony for a new arms manufacturing plant in Lower Saxony.

Rheinmetall plans to invest over $300 million in this facility, anticipated to produce 200,000 artillery shells annually.

Papperger stressed the urgency of bolstering Europe’s defense capabilities, noting the challenges posed by potential aggressors and the need to replenish ammunition stocks.

He indicated that while Europe must support Ukraine in its conflict, it must also prioritise its own defense preparedness, requiring at least five to ten years to adequately stockpile ammunition.

Chancellor Scholz refrained initially from expressing concern over recent comments by US presidential candidate Donald Trump regarding NATO’s defense commitments. However, he later condemned Trump’s remarks as “irresponsible and dangerous,” affirming the significance of NATO for the security of the US, Canada, and European nations.

Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen echoed the sentiment of European readiness, emphasising the escalating threat posed by Russia and the imperative for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities independently.

Since Chancellor Scholz declared a turning point in Germany’s foreign and defense policy following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there has been a growing recognition of the need for Europe, particularly Germany, to take a more assertive role in security matters.

However, despite increased investment in defense since the invasion, experts acknowledge that Europe still relies heavily on US support in conventional conflicts.

Papperger underscored the importance of the “Zeitenwende” (turning point), indicating improved trust between government and defense contractors. Nonetheless, the historical context of rearmament and its consequences looms over the debate, emphasizing the need for cautious and strategic decision-making in European defense policy.

While uncertainties persist regarding the outcome of the US election, Trump’s recent comments serve as a wake-up call for Europe, reaffirming the urgency of bolstering its defense capabilities to ensure collective security in the face of evolving global threats.