In a recent interview with the BBC, the CEO of Germany’s largest defense firm, Rheinmetall, warned that it will take Europe at least a decade to build up its arms stocks and fully defend itself. Armin Papperger emphasized that the current ammunition stocks in Europe are “empty,” leaving the continent vulnerable to potential aggressors.
Papperger’s comments came during a visit by Chancellor Olaf Scholz to a foundation-laying ceremony for a major new arms manufacturing plant in Lower Saxony. The event was also attended by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The remarks by Papperger follow similar concerns raised by US presidential candidate Donald Trump, who stated that he would not protect NATO members who do not pay their dues and even seemed to encourage aggressors.
To address the existing gap in defense readiness, Rheinmetall has announced plans to invest over $300 million in a new facility that is expected to produce 200,000 rounds of artillery shells annually. However, Papperger emphasized that it would take a significant amount of time to prepare against an aggressor who wishes to fight against NATO. He stated, “We are fine in three, four years – but to be really prepared, we need 10 years.” Papperger also highlighted the shortage of ammunition in Europe, as a significant amount has been sent to Ukraine to assist in their ongoing conflict.
Chancellor Scholz, however, did not express concern about Trump’s comments, asserting his confidence in the importance of NATO for the US, Canada, and European countries. He added that Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has displayed “imperial ambitions” and emphasized the need to successfully deter potential aggressors for the sake of peace. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed these sentiments, stating that Europe must be prepared regardless of the support it receives.
The need for Europe to accelerate its defense capabilities has been recognized since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which led to Chancellor Scholz declaring a turning point in Germany’s foreign and defense policy. However, despite increased investments, Europe is still reliant on US support in conventional conflicts. Dr. Claudia Major from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs asserts that while progress has been made, it is not sufficient to address the full range of global security challenges.
The urgency to enhance defense readiness is underscored by the historical context in Germany, as the country’s past rearmament efforts resulted in military and morale catastrophes in the 20th century. Trump’s recent comments serve as a wake-up call for Europe, highlighting the need to take immediate action to strengthen its defense capabilities.
In conclusion, Europe’s defense industry needs a significant amount of time to build up its arms stocks and fully defend itself. The investment by Rheinmetall in a new manufacturing plant is a step in the right direction, but it will take at least a decade to achieve the desired level of readiness. European leaders must carefully consider the implications of Trump’s comments and work towards reinforcing their defense capabilities to ensure the continent’s security and stability in the face of potential threats.
