OHB and Rheinmetall have established a new joint venture, OHB Rheinmetall Space Networks GmbH, to develop a next-generation satellite communications network for the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr). The company will lead the delivery of a secure, resilient and high-performance communications architecture under the SATCOMBw Level 4 programme, strengthening Germany’s defence capabilities while reinforcing its technological sovereignty.
The joint venture has been created to oversee every phase of the programme, from system design and integration to deployment, operations, cybersecurity and long-term support. It will also operate a dedicated Cyber Operations Centre to safeguard communications infrastructure against evolving digital threats.
Designed to meet the growing demands of modern military operations, the future communications system will enable secure and continuous exchange of voice, data and real-time information between soldiers, command centres, vehicles, military platforms and unmanned systems. The network will support seamless connectivity across every command level, ensuring reliable communications even in demanding operational environments.
The new company is jointly led by Managing Directors Dennis Winkelmann, who brings more than 25 years of experience in the space industry including nearly two decades with OHB, and Alexander Beyer, a former Bundeswehr officer who most recently managed satellite communications activities at Rheinmetall. The venture was officially established following approval from Germany’s Federal Cartel Office in April 2026 and has now been registered in Bremen’s commercial register.
Bremen Mayor Andreas Bovenschulte welcomed the initiative, stating that the partnership reinforces the city’s position as Germany’s leading space technology hub while expanding its growing role in maritime and space defence. He noted that the project is expected to create new employment opportunities while securing hundreds of existing high-skilled jobs across the region.
The collaboration also supports Germany’s broader objective of strengthening domestic defence manufacturing and reducing reliance on external technologies. By executing the programme within Germany, OHB and Rheinmetall aim to enhance Europe’s technological independence while supporting the country’s long-term security priorities.
Marco Fuchs, Chief Executive Officer of OHB SE, said the joint venture combines the complementary strengths of both companies to deliver a future-ready communications platform that will strengthen the Bundeswehr’s operational resilience and contribute to Europe’s evolving security architecture.
Timo Haas, Chief Executive Officer of Rheinmetall’s Digital Systems division, said secure satellite-based communications have become essential for modern military operations. He noted that the partnership combines Rheinmetall’s expertise in military systems with OHB’s advanced space capabilities to deliver a robust communications network capable of supporting highly digitalised armed forces under all operating conditions.
Beyond supporting Germany’s defence modernisation programme, the new venture also positions itself as a future network operator capable of contributing to NATO initiatives and multinational defence cooperation under the Framework Nations Concept.
