General Atomics, Rheinmetall Explore Transatlantic Co-Production of Vektrex™ for Allied Artillery Modernization
Collaboration supports stockpile replenishment and coalition interoperability
SAN DIEGO (June 18, 2026) — General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) and Rheinmetall announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at Eurosatory 2026 to explore cooperative production opportunities for Vektrex™, a maneuvering 155 mm precision-guided munition. Vektrex extends the range and effectiveness of coalition artillery forces and addresses growing requirements for modernization, long-range strike capability and munitions replenishment.
CEO of Rheinmetall’s Weapon and Ammunition Division Roman Koehne and General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems President Scott Forney sign an MOU at Eurosatory 2026 to advance cooperative production of the Vektrex™ 155 mm precision guided munition.
Driven by increasing international demand for industrial-scale manufacturing as governments rebuild depleted munition inventories, expand defense industrial capacity, and modernize artillery forces for high-intensity operations, the companies entered into the agreement to assess Vektrex as a cost-effective standoff capability. Vektrex integrates with fielded 39- and 52-caliber 155 mm artillery systems, enabling rapid integration across coalition force structures.
The MOU, signed by GA-EMS President Scott Forney and the CEO of Rheinmetall’s Weapon and Ammunition Division, Roman Koehne, builds on GA-EMS’ continued investment in precision-strike munition development and scalable manufacturing. Rheinmetall’s expertise in munitions and production, combined with its NATO-compliant infrastructure, positions Vektrex for large-scale series production to meet the requirements of Alliance and partner nations.
“Operational demand continues to outpace traditional guided-munition manufacturing output,” Forney said. “This collaboration helps allied industry expand long-range strike capability while leveraging artillery systems already deployed across coalition forces.”
Vektrex delivers maneuvering strike capability in contested and GPS-degraded environments. Its glide-based aerodynamic design extends engagement range two to three times beyond conventional artillery projectiles while reducing integration risk for fielded artillery formations. The munition provides a lower cost-per-effect alternative to tactical missile systems for forces requiring survivable standoff fires.
“European and allied armed forces require long-range strike capabilities that integrate rapidly, scale efficiently, and remain sustainable through resilient multinational industrial networks,” Koehne said. “This MOU enables both companies to align advanced artillery technologies with established manufacturing infrastructure to support evolving operational requirements.”
The collaboration supports distributed co-production opportunities that can strengthen supply chains, accelerate fielding timelines, and expand industrial participation across allied defense sectors. As military requirements shift toward longer-range and higher-volume fires, Vektrex provides a scalable modernization path for fielded artillery systems without requiring new launcher or propellant infrastructure or logistics.
About General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) develops innovative technologies to create breakthrough solutions supporting operational environments from undersea to space. From electromagnetic, power generation and energy storage systems, fission energy systems, and space systems and satellites, to hypersonic, missile defense, and laser weapon systems, GA-EMS offers an expanding portfolio of capabilities for defense, government, and national security customers. GA-EMS also provides commercial products and services targeting hazardous waste remediation, oil and gas, and nuclear energy industries. For further information, visit ga.com/ems.
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About Rheinmetall
Rheinmetall AG is an integrated technology group headquartered in Düsseldorf. Founded in 1889, the company is a leading international systems provider in the defence industry, operating across the land, air, sea and space domains. Sustainability is an integral part of Rheinmetall’s strategy. With around 34,000 employees at some 160 locations worldwide, Rheinmetall has been listed on the DAX 40 since March 2023 and achieved a turnover of €9.9 billion in the 2025 financial year.