26.03.2026 17:33
While German government agencies and officials do not deny claims that the automotive manufacturer Volkswagen is in strategic partnership talks with the Israeli arms company Rafael, the German Ministry of Economy and Energy stated that "any initiative aimed at protecting employment in Germany is welcomed."
In a written response to a question from an AA reporter, the German Federal Government Spokesperson noted the claim in the international press that "Volkswagen is collaborating with the Israeli arms company Rafael to save the Osnabrück factory, which is at risk of halting production, by potentially producing components such as launchers and transport vehicles for the Iron Dome air defense system."
"WE WELCOME INITIATIVES TO PROTECT EMPLOYMENT"
The statement indicated that the automotive sector is currently undergoing a profound transformation process and that international competition is becoming increasingly challenging, emphasizing that any initiative aimed at protecting employment in Germany is welcomed. The statement also highlighted that the federal government continues to closely monitor the situation in the sector.
The statement recalled that a large-scale summit was held last year to discuss developments in the automotive sector, and it was reported that an agreement was reached on measures to support the sector in collaboration with the affected companies and the states where major automotive groups are located.
"INFORMATION WILL BE PROVIDED AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME"
The German Ministry of Defense also responded to AA's question, stating that there is publicly available information regarding the "Iron Dome" system, but details about potential procurement processes can only be shared after parliamentary approval.
The ministry's response indicated that claims regarding such discussions were neither confirmed nor denied, pointing to the confidentiality of the matter and that information would be provided at the appropriate time.
The German Ministry of Economy and Energy also informed AA that it is monitoring the claims in the international press that "Volkswagen may produce components for the Iron Dome system in collaboration with the Israeli company Rafael."
In the written response provided by the ministry, it was stated, "The government does not comment on the concrete initiatives or discussions of companies as a matter of principle. Such collaborations are commercial decisions."
The response indicated that the automotive sector is undergoing a challenging transformation process and that "any initiative aimed at protecting employment in Germany is welcomed."
VOLKSWAGEN: WE DO NOT ENGAGE IN SPECULATION
In the response from the Volkswagen Group, which is at the center of the claims, it was stated that different market opportunities and vehicle concepts are being evaluated for the future of the Osnabrück factory after 2027, but no concrete decision has been made yet.
The company spokesperson stated, "The production of weapons within Volkswagen AG is unlikely in the future. We do not engage in speculation regarding the planning of the Osnabrück facility."
Volkswagen management, highlighting the facility's expertise in small series and special projects, noted that employees have been informed about the process.
No details were shared regarding whether there have been any discussions or collaborations concerning a strategic partnership with Rafael.
"WHAT MATTERS IS THE INDUSTRIAL PERSPECTIVE"
In a written response to AA's questions from Germany's largest union, IG Metall, it was stated that they are focusing on sustainable industrial solutions for the facility instead of rumors.
Union spokesperson Alina Heisig stated, "The factory has decades of experience in vehicle production and a highly qualified workforce. Volkswagen management has the responsibility to provide employees with a reliable perspective for after 2027."
It was claimed that the German automotive manufacturer Volkswagen is conducting strategic partnership talks with the Israeli arms company Rafael to save the Osnabrück factory, which is at risk of closure.
According to a report by the Financial Times based on sources close to the matter, it is planned that components such as launchers and transport vehicles for the "Iron Dome" air defense system will be produced at this facility as part of the collaboration.
The project supported by the German government aims to preserve 2,300 jobs.