Rheinmetall has confirmed Telford as the home of its new leading-edge largecalibre barrel production facility – marking a bold step in re-establishing sovereign defence manufacturing in the UK and delivering on its strategic partnership with the Ministry of Defence (MoD), under the Trinity House Agreement.
This major investment positions Rheinmetall at the heart of Britains defence industrial revival, supporting both the modernisation of the British Army and the UKs role in strengthening NATOs collective readiness. With production set to begin by 2027, the UK will once again join the ranks of nations capable of manufacturing large-calibre barrels – vital for national defence and global export.
Momentum is already building. Rheinmetall has placed orders for key long-lead manufacturing equipment, ensuring rapid progress and reinforcing its full commitment to delivering this critical capability on time.
Expanding on an Industrial Powerhouse
The new facility will use British steel and advanced manufacturing to deliver nextgeneration barrel systems for both UK and allied platforms. With plans to inject over £400 million into the UK economy over the next decade and create more than 400 jobs – directly and indirectly via supply chain – this will revitalise the local industry and boost prosperity in Telford and beyond.
The Rt Hon Mark Pritchard MP for The Wrekin constituency in Shropshire shared:
This is fantastic news for the whole of Shropshire – for local suppliers and for the employment and skills this major investment will bring. Ive worked tirelessly with Rheinmetall senior management to secure this investment for the area and Im pleased that ministers have listened to our joint representations. This is a big day for the county as a whole.
By restoring this vital capability – which has been lost in the UK since 2016 – Rheinmetall is positioning Britain as a defence manufacturing leader once again.
This initiative is a key pillar of Rheinmetall UKs broader strategic investment plan to grow our industrial footprint, with over £70 million already committed to strengthening sovereign capabilities, driving innovation and supporting job creation. Key elements of this investment include the expansion of the Telford facility to support Boxer and Challenger 3 production, alongside the development of Rheinmetall House in Bristol the UK headquarters and Collaboration and Innovation Centre further advancing engineering excellence and MoD collaboration.
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