Anduril and Rheinmetall Team Up to Build Advanced Drones for European Defense

In a major step for European defense technology, Anduril Industries and Rheinmetall have announced a partnership to develop and manufacture cutting-edge autonomous drones and propulsion systems tailored for NATO allies. The collaboration, revealed today, focuses on integrating Anduril’s Barracuda and Fury drones, along with solid rocket motors, into Rheinmetall’s European production and digital framework, promising faster, more adaptable solutions for modern battlefields.

Next-Generation Autonomous Drones

The partnership centers on two key drone systems: the Barracuda and the Fury. The Barracuda, a low-cost, mass-producible autonomous air vehicle, is designed for scalability. Its modular structure supports various payloads and targeting modes, making it versatile for missions ranging from reconnaissance to precision strikes. With a European variant now integrated into Rheinmetall’s “Battlesuite” digital sovereignty framework, the Barracuda can be tailored to meet specific regional needs, ensuring local control and operational flexibility.

The Fury, a high-performance Group 5 autonomous air vehicle, is built for complex, multi-mission roles. Capable of operating alongside manned aircraft, it offers advanced fighter-like performance and can carry diverse sensors and payloads. Its integration into Rheinmetall’s ecosystem allows European nations to customize command-and-control systems, aligning with NATO’s evolving requirements.

“This is a different model of defense collaboration, one built on shared production, operational relevance, and mutual respect for sovereignty,” said Brian Schimpf, CEO of Anduril Industries.

Solid Rocket Motors for Reliable Propulsion

Beyond drones, the partnership explores the development of solid rocket motors to bolster Europe’s propulsion capabilities. These motors aim to provide a steady, scalable supply for defense applications, reducing reliance on limited domestic sources. By leveraging Anduril’s innovative production methods, the collaboration could enhance industrial redundancy, ensuring consistent delivery of critical components. This effort aligns with Europe’s push for self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing, addressing supply chain vulnerabilities.

A New Model for Defense Collaboration

The Anduril-Rheinmetall alliance emphasizes speed, modularity, and co-development, moving away from slow, proprietary systems that lock users into single-vendor contracts.

“Rheinmetall has always stood for reliability, scale, and strategic depth in defence manufacturing,” said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall.

By combining Rheinmetall’s robust production infrastructure with Anduril’s software-driven, agile designs, the partnership delivers systems that can be rapidly deployed and adapted to new threats.

This approach also prioritizes European sovereignty. Unlike traditional “off-the-shelf” solutions, the collaboration involves local suppliers and industrial partners across Europe, fostering transparency and reducing dependency. The systems are designed to evolve with NATO’s mission needs, offering a framework where allies can shape their capabilities while maintaining interoperability.

Implications for European Defense

The partnership arrives at a critical time as European nations modernize their militaries amid rising geopolitical tensions. The Barracuda’s affordability and scalability—potentially deployable in large numbers—could transform how forces conduct surveillance and combat operations. The Fury’s ability to integrate with manned aircraft enhances teaming strategies, crucial for future air warfare. Meanwhile, the focus on solid rocket motors strengthens Europe’s industrial base, with economic benefits from job creation and localized production.

Operationally, these systems promise greater flexibility. The Barracuda’s range, estimated at 500 miles (800 kilometers), and the Fury’s advanced sensors enable long-range, high-precision missions. Regulatory alignment with NATO standards ensures seamless integration across allied forces, while the emphasis on sovereignty addresses concerns about data security and operational autonomy.

This collaboration sets a precedent for defense innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with practical, region-specific solutions. As Anduril and Rheinmetall roll out these systems, European militaries stand to gain a strategic edge, built on adaptability, scale, and partnership.

Photo courtesy of Anduril