Europe’s First Patriot Missile Plant Breaks Ground in Germany’s Bavaria

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius inaugurated the expansion of MBDA Matra BAe Dynamics Aérospatiale’s facility in Schrobenhausen, Bavaria, on Monday.

The groundbreaking ceremony marked the establishment of Europe’s first plant for producing Patriot (Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept on Target) guided missiles and the expansion of existing capacities for various missile systems.

The expanded facility will include missile hubs that integrate production, maintenance, repair, and modernization of missile systems for the German armed forces and NATO partners. Pistorius emphasized the critical role of Patriot guided missiles in enhancing the air defense capabilities of the Bundeswehr and its allies.

The expansion aligns with broader European defense initiatives, including the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI). In the past year, Germany collaborated with Spain, the Netherlands, Romania, and Sweden to jointly procure 1,000 Patriot GEM-T (Guidance Enhanced Missile) guided missiles.

The Schrobenhausen facility's growth will increase the global production rate of Patriot missiles, complementing Germany’s contracts for 2,600 PARM (anti-tank guided mine) systems and thousands of Brimstone missiles. MBDA Germany also leads the introduction of the Arrow missile defense system, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to European and NATO defense.

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By 2028, the company will create additional production lines, bunker space, and storage facilities. This expansion will bring a 25% workforce increase, boosting the total number of employees to over 1,700 by 2025.

The expansion also ensures the replenishment of Bundeswehr missile stocks after significant transfers to Ukraine, addressing NATO’s growing demands and enhancing sustainability in operational readiness.