Rheinmetall UK has confirmed that Telford will be the location for its new large-calibre barrel production facility. This facility is part of the company’s strategic partnership with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) under the Trinity House Agreement.
This significant investment places Rheinmetall at the center of Britain’s defence industry revival. It will support the British Army’s modernisation and strengthen the UK’s role in NATO’s collective defence readiness. Production at the new site is expected to start by 2027. Once operational, the UK will rejoin the select group of countries able to manufacture large-calibre barrels — a key element for national security and global exports.
Rheinmetall has already ordered important manufacturing equipment to ensure the project moves forward quickly. The facility will use British steel and advanced manufacturing techniques to produce next-generation barrel systems. These will serve both UK and allied military platforms. Over the next ten years, Rheinmetall plans to invest more than £400 million in the UK economy. The project will create over 400 jobs, directly and through the supply chain, boosting local industry and economic growth in Telford and the surrounding area.
Mark Pritchard, Member of Parliament for The Wrekin in Shropshire, said, “This is excellent news for all of Shropshire. It will benefit local suppliers and create jobs and skills through this major investment. I have worked hard with Rheinmetall’s senior management to bring this opportunity here, and I am glad ministers have supported our efforts. This is an important day for the county.”
Since 2016, the UK has lost the ability to produce this vital capability. Rheinmetall’s new facility will restore it, making Britain a leader in defence manufacturing once again. This project is a key part of Rheinmetall UK’s broader plan to grow its industrial presence. The company has already committed over £70 million to enhance sovereign capabilities, promote innovation, and support job creation.
Other parts of this plan include expanding the Telford site to support production of the Boxer and Challenger 3 military vehicles, and developing Rheinmetall House in Bristol. The Bristol centre will serve as the UK headquarters and a Collaboration and Innovation Centre, advancing engineering skills and cooperation with the MoD.
As the British Army aims to triple its combat power by 2030, Rheinmetall’s new gun barrel facility will provide the advanced systems needed to meet that goal. The facility will improve firepower and secure the supply chain, supporting the Army’s future structure and readiness for modern warfare — including conflicts like the one in Ukraine.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Rheinmetall plans to increase Boxer vehicle production, advance Challenger 3 testing, and begin operations at the new gun hall. These efforts include significant investments in UK defence skills, such as apprenticeships, graduate programmes, and industrial placements. Rheinmetall is also working to involve more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in its global supply chain, boosting domestic production and UK exports.
The new facility will also support NATO by providing advanced, interoperable weapon systems to allied countries. It opens the door for greater UK involvement in multinational defence projects and secures Rheinmetall’s position as a key part of NATO’s industrial base.
Armin Papperger, CEO and chairman of Rheinmetall Germany, said, “This is more than just an investment — it is a clear statement. We are delivering the infrastructure, technology, and ambition needed to put the UK at the forefront of global defence manufacturing. With the site confirmed and equipment already ordered, Rheinmetall is moving quickly to turn this vision into reality.”
