The Bundeskartellamt has granted approval for the formation of a joint venture between Rheinmetall Digital GmbH and OHB SE, both based in Bremen, aimed at securing a future procurement contract for the German armed forces.

The focus of this project is to expand military satellite communication capabilities. Rheinmetall Digital, a subsidiary of Rheinmetall AG, specializes in the development, integration, and provision of digital systems, while OHB is a space and technology company that develops space systems.

The newly established joint venture will act as a system integrator and main contractor. OHB will cover the space and ground segment of the satellites, including satellite production and ground station construction. Meanwhile, Rheinmetall Digital will be responsible for the user and network segment, such as end-user terminals.

Andreas Mundt, President of the Bundeskartellamt, stated that Rheinmetall Digital and OHB operate in different sectors and aim to combine their expertise to submit a joint offer. There are no competitive concerns regarding the establishment of this joint venture.