Rheinmetall AG has announced its acquisition of Hagedorn-NC GmbH, a company based in Osnabrück, Lower Saxony, known for its long-standing production of industrial nitrocellulose. Hagedorn-NC has been manufacturing nitrocellulose for civilian applications for over a century, with operations in Lingen an der Ems. Following the acquisition, Rheinmetall plans to adapt certain production processes for military applications, primarily focusing on propellants for artillery ammunition, including 155mm rounds.
The deal, finalized between Rheinmetall and Hagedorn AG, the seller, is currently pending approval from antitrust authorities.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, highlighted the strategic significance of the acquisition: “This acquisition addresses a key production bottleneck for propellants and enhances our capacity to supply ammunition components. It will also further integrate our value chain from raw materials to finished products. We look forward to incorporating Hagedorn NC’s skilled workforce into Rheinmetall.”
Gerd Hofmann, CEO of Hagedorn AG, expressed confidence in the partnership: “Rheinmetall offers Hagedorn-NC new growth opportunities. I believe both companies will collaborate effectively, benefiting from each other’s strengths.”
Rheinmetall currently operates nitrocellulose production sites in Switzerland, Spain, and South Africa. The acquisition will add an additional site to its global network. For the time being, Hagedorn-NC’s existing civilian customers will continue to be served, with plans to shift production towards military-grade materials in the near future.
This acquisition strengthens Rheinmetall's position within NATO as a leading supplier of large-caliber ammunition and ensures a consistent, independent supply of vital components for its production needs. Rheinmetall’s integrated approach provides a comprehensive offering, including projectiles, fuses, explosive charges, and propellants, all from a single source.