German defense conglomerate Rheinmetall has made an official offer to acquire the naval vessels division of Bremen-based shipbuilding group Lürssen, marking a significant strategic move to expand its marine defense business. The proposed transaction, valued in the billions, would see Rheinmetall take control of Naval Vessels Lürssen (NVL), which specializes in constructing and manufacturing naval and authority ships for the German Bundeswehr and international clients. The deal, subject to regulatory approval from antitrust authorities, could be finalized by early 2026.

NVL operates four shipyards across Germany: the Peene-Werft in Wolgast, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern; parts of Blohm+Voss and the Norderwerft in Hamburg; and the Neue Jadewerft in Wilhelmshaven. The company's headquarters are located in Bremen-Vegesack with an additional campus in Lemwerder, Lower Saxony. Currently employing approximately 2,100 people domestically and internationally, NVL maintains a workforce of about 530 employees across the Bremen and Lemwerder sites, with additional significant employment at its other German locations.

Rheinmetall has moved to address workforce concerns by explicitly stating that neither site closures nor staff reductions are planned as part of the acquisition. A company spokesperson emphasized that the defense giant expects substantial orders in the naval sector that will enable significant revenue growth, making job security a firm objective. The commitment extends to providing NVL locations with a successful future and employees with secure perspectives, according to Rheinmetall's official statements.

Local authorities in Bremen have expressed strong interest in maintaining the company's headquarters in the region. Bremen's Senate has called for the preservation of NVL's base in the city, with Economics Senator Kristina Vogt highlighting Bremen's strength as a shipbuilding location and emphasizing the importance of securing highly qualified jobs. The IG Metall union has reported ongoing uncertainty among employees, who seek clarity on the timeline and implementation of the acquisition process, reflecting the broader regional implications of this major defense industry consolidation.