Auburn Hills, Michigan, September 15, 2025
News Summary
American Rheinmetall has announced a $31.7 million investment in Michigan, set to create 450 new jobs. The new headquarters in Auburn Hills will consolidate operations and enhance the company’s engineering capabilities. This investment supports U.S. military modernization efforts and strengthens Michigan’s defense sector, benefiting the local economy significantly.
Auburn Hills, Michigan – American Rheinmetall has announced a substantial investment of $31.7 million in Michigan that is expected to create 450 new jobs across its facilities in the state. This investment aims to establish a new headquarters in Auburn Hills, where American Rheinmetall will consolidate operations from its locations in Troy and Sterling Heights.
The announcement was made by Governor Gretchen Whitmer during a visit to Rheinmetall AG’s proving ground in Germany. The new headquarters will enhance the company’s engineering, prototyping, and technical capabilities, while also supporting critical U.S. Department of Defense contracts. The investment is anticipated to fuel production growth at American Rheinmetall’s existing facilities located in Plymouth, Lapeer, and Lansing.
American Rheinmetall specializes in the development and manufacturing of advanced tracked and wheeled military vehicles, subsystems, and various components for both defense and commercial markets. A significant aspect of the company’s efforts is its involvement in U.S. military modernization initiatives, including the U.S. Army’s XM30 combat vehicle program, which is focused on replacing the M2 Bradley.
Before this latest investment, American Rheinmetall acquired Loc Performance Products, a Michigan-based manufacturer known for producing military vehicle components. Michigan was selected for this investment after competing with eight other states, showcasing the importance of location and workforce availability in the decision-making process.
Governor Whitmer highlighted Michigan’s strong standing in the defense sector and reiterated the state’s recognition as a top ten state for business for three consecutive years. The announcement reinforces Michigan’s historical legacy as the “Arsenal of Democracy,” recognized for its excellence in advanced manufacturing and the transportation industry’s innovation and growth.
Matt Warnick, the CEO of American Rheinmetall, expressed appreciation for the local support, asserting a continued commitment to deepening the company’s roots in Michigan. Meanwhile, Auburn Hills Mayor Brian Marzolf emphasized the significance of this investment, reinforcing the city’s status as a hub for global innovation and manufacturing.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) plays a crucial role in facilitating opportunities for global companies like Rheinmetall to “Make It in Michigan,” which ultimately benefits the state’s economy. Furthermore, the defense industry in Michigan contributes approximately $30 billion to the economic activity and employs over 166,000 individuals, underscoring the importance of this sector to the state’s livelihood.
The investment by American Rheinmetall is viewed as a collaborative achievement involving state representatives, local leaders, and industry partnerships such as the Detroit Regional Defense Coalition, aiming to foster growth and maintain Michigan’s leading role in the defense manufacturing sector.
Key Benefits of American Rheinmetall’s Investment
- Creation of 450 new jobs in Michigan
- Establishment of a new headquarters in Auburn Hills
- Consolidation of operations from Troy and Sterling Heights
- Involvement in U.S. military modernization programs
- Significant growth in production capabilities
Background on American Rheinmetall and Michigan’s Defense Sector
American Rheinmetall operates within a significantly impactful defense industry in Michigan, a sector that is valued at around $30 billion. The state has a rich history in military vehicle manufacturing and continues to be a vital player in supplying advanced technologies and products to the U.S. Department of Defense.
With this investment, American Rheinmetall aims to advance its engineering and manufacturing capabilities further, placing Michigan on the map as a top destination for defense innovation and job creation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the total investment made by American Rheinmetall in Michigan?
American Rheinmetall has invested a total of $31.7 million in Michigan.
How many jobs will this investment create?
The investment is expected to create 450 new jobs across American Rheinmetall’s facilities in Michigan.
Where will the new headquarters be located?
The new headquarters will be located in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
What industries does American Rheinmetall operate within?
American Rheinmetall specializes in developing and manufacturing advanced tracked and wheeled military vehicles, subsystems, and components for defense and commercial markets.
Chart of Key Features of the Investment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $31.7 million |
| New Jobs Created | 450 |
| New Headquarters Location | Auburn Hills |
| Facilities Included | Plymouth, Lapeer, Lansing |
| Industry Focus | Defense and commercial military vehicles |
| Significance in Defense | Supports U.S. military modernization |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
American Rheinmetall Invests $31.7 Million in Michigan
American Rheinmetall Announces $31.7 Million Investment in Michigan
American Rheinmetall Invests $31.7 Million in Auburn Hills
Additional Resources
- Oakland County 115
- Rheinmetall AG News
- MLive
- CBS News Detroit
- Business Facilities
- Wikipedia: Michigan
- Google Search: American Rheinmetall
- Google Scholar: Defense Industry Michigan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Defense Industry
- Google News: American Rheinmetall Investment
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