Rheinmetall has finalised the acquisition of Naval Vessels Lürssen (NVL), the military shipbuilding unit of the Lürssen Group, following confirmation that all necessary antitrust approvals have been received.
The acquisition was completed on 1 March 2026, with both companies choosing not to disclose the purchase price.
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Rheinmetall initially announced the deal in September 2025, with contract signing completed in October the same year.
The acquisition allows Rheinmetall to establish a German systems house dedicated to designing and producing navy and coastguard vessels, along with maritime autonomous surface systems.
With this transaction, Rheinmetall extends its role as a supplier within Germany and Europe’s defence technology sector.
Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger said: “In combining the expertise of Rheinmetall and NVL, we will be creating a powerful full-range supplier for state-of-the-art surface vessels.
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By GlobalData“This will generate mutual growth and thus secure a strong position for our corporation’s position in the maritime sphere. At the same time, we are making a substantial contribution to empower the naval defence capabilities of Germany and its Nato allies.”
NVL is now operating under Rheinmetall as the Naval Systems Division, brings four northern German shipyards and international locations, employing around 2,100 people worldwide.
Since its founding around 150 years ago, NVL has constructed about 1,000 ships delivered to over fifty navies and coast guards worldwide. It generated approximately €1bn in sales in 2024.
NVL was known as Lürssen Defence until 2021, when it separated from the yacht division to become an independent entity within the family-run Lürssen Group.
The company focuses on supporting fleets throughout their operational life cycles through shipbuilding, maintenance and repair.
In a LinkedIn post, NVL said: “From now on, we will continue our success story in shipbuilding under the umbrella of Rheinmetall.
“As the Naval Systems Division, together with our new colleagues, we will reach completely new dimensions – for our growth trajectory, our technological potential and, in particular, for the defence capability of our country and our Nato partners.”
