NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte underscored the Alliance’s urgent need to expand defence production during a two-day visit to Germany, 27–28 August. His programme included the opening of Rheinmetall’s new artillery facility and high-level discussions with Bundestag parliamentary groups from the CDU/CSU and SPD.
Speaking at the factory inauguration on Wednesday, Rutte pointed to the decisive role of Europe’s defence industrial base in strengthening NATO’s posture. “Defence industry in Germany – and across Europe and North America – matters more than ever. Ensuring we are strong and successful is an absolute priority for NATO,” he said, stressing that transatlantic efforts are “on course to turn the tide on defence production.”
The following day, Rutte addressed lawmakers gathered in Würzburg, praising Berlin’s leadership in both defence spending and industrial output. He highlighted Germany’s position as NATO’s second-largest provider of military aid to Ukraine after the United States, describing its contributions as “essential” to Kyiv’s ability to resist Russian aggression and pursue a sustainable peace.
The Secretary General’s visit comes amid heightened focus on Europe’s capacity to scale munitions and equipment output, with industry leaders and governments alike under pressure to deliver faster and in greater volumes to meet NATO requirements.
source and images: NATO
