Rheinmetall Gains Majority Stake in Blackned to Boost Digitalisation of Armed Forces

Rheinmetall Gains Majority Stake in Blackned to Boost Digitalisation of Armed Forces

(IN BRIEF) Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH has increased its stake in the Bavarian software developer blackned GmbH from 40% to 51%, gaining majority control of the company. This move underscores Rheinmetall’s commitment to the digitalisation of armed forces. The acquisition is subject to approval by the German Federal Cartel Office. In a major milestone, Rheinmetall and blackned secured a key contract to digitise the Bundeswehr’s vehicle and platform systems, worth a combined €1.2 billion. The partnership is set to modernize over 10,000 military vehicles by 2030.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 10-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH, based in Bremen, has increased its stake in the Bavarian software developer blackned GmbH from 40% to 51%, acquiring an additional 11% of shares through a share purchase agreement. This acquisition, which grants Rheinmetall majority control of blackned, is still subject to approval by the German Federal Cartel Office and other conditions.

Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Heimertingen, Bavaria, blackned specializes in software solutions that support the digitalisation of armed forces. With a rapidly expanding workforce of around 200 employees, blackned has been at the forefront of providing advanced IT architectures for military applications. This acquisition emphasizes Rheinmetall’s commitment to advancing digital solutions in defense technology.

In a significant development last December, Rheinmetall and blackned secured a major contract for the digitalisation of the Bundeswehr’s systems. As part of the D-LBO project, the two companies will work together to integrate IT systems across all vehicle and platform systems of the German land forces. Rheinmetall’s contribution will total approximately €730 million, while blackned will provide around €470 million. The project aims to modernize over 10,000 combat and support vehicles by 2030.

Armin Papperger, Chairman of the Executive Board at Rheinmetall AG, stated, “The digitalisation of armed forces is progressing, not only in Germany but also internationally. We are determined to be leaders in this space, as seen in our ongoing projects in Australia, the United Kingdom, and Hungary. Our success in securing the D-LBO project for the Bundeswehr highlights the value of our digital solutions.”

Media Contact:

Oliver Hoffmann
Head of Press and Public Relations
Phone: +49 211 473-4748
Fax: +49 211 473-4157

SOURCE: Rheinmetall