Leipzig protesters oppose Covenant missile factory plans

Approximately 400 people marched through the streets of Leipzig to protest plans by the American defense company Covenant to manufacture long-range cruise missiles in the city. Demonstrators carried signs reading ‘No missile factory in Leipzig’ and demanded an immediate halt to the project in the northern part of the city.

Covenant opened its first European industrial base in Leipzig in early October. The company intends to begin production of the Anthem missile system in 2027, with a target of producing 1,000 missiles in the first year and increasing output to 5,000 by 2028. The facility is expected to become Covenant’s largest site.

The project has sparked intense debate in Saxony. Supporters, including the Saxon state government, highlight economic benefits and job creation. Saxony Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer stated during the base's opening that security is essential for freedom and prosperity. Conversely, critics warn of increased militarization and the risk of Leipzig becoming a military target, arguing that funds should instead support social and peaceful economic initiatives.