German defence firm Hensoldt opens new factory creating 900 jobs

German defence contractor Hensoldt inaugurated a new production plant in Oberkochen, Baden‑Württemberg, with an investment of about €300 million. The 40,000 m² complex will house development, manufacturing and service units for advanced optical systems used by the Bundeswehr, including digital sighting equipment for Leopard tanks, Puma combat vehicles and submarine periscopes.

The plant is expected to double the local workforce from roughly 1,000 to about 1,900 employees, creating around 900 new jobs. Defence minister Boris Pistorius attended the opening and highlighted the project's importance for German industry and security. Hensoldt, founded in 2017 and employing over 9,300 people, reported revenue of roughly €2.46 billion for 2025.