Rheinmetall will build a new logistics and technology centre at Kassel Airport in Calden and expand its existing Kassel site under a North Hesse Defence Hub plan that will add military logistics, testing and training capacity. The project carries more than €260 million in funding, forms part of a broader three-digit million-euro investment package and is due to become operational by the end of 2027.
The new facility will cover more than 30,000 square metres and includes a drone test centre at Calden alongside the site expansion in Kassel. The industrial group intends to use the hub to support growth in tactical military vehicles and to link production, logistics and testing in one regional network.
The plans were presented in Calden with Hesse’s state government, including Minister-President Boris Rhein and Rheinmetall chief executive Armin Papperger. Regional reporting indicates the project could create more than 1,000 jobs, lifting employment at the Kassel site from about 2,200 to 3,000. Hesse is expected to provide financial support of around €25 million.