Metlen Secures Major Defense Deal with KNDS and Plans Further Expansion

Greek defense company Metlen, through its M Technologies division, has signed a major contract with KNDS Deutschland for the production of 200 critical components for the Leopard 2A8, KNDS’ most advanced main battle tank. Production will take place at Metlen’s Defense Hub in Volos and continue until 2031, reinforcing both Greek and European defense manufacturing capabilities.

A Strategic Partnership

The deal underscores Metlen’s 23+ year collaboration with KNDS Deutschland, which already includes production of Leopard 2 MBT armor components in Volos. The Leopard 2A8 is considered one of the most advanced battle tanks in the world, and Metlen’s involvement in its production strengthens European defense capability while advancing the company’s medium-term strategic plan, presented at the Capital Markets Day in London in April 2025.

Volos Defense Hub – Jobs and Innovation

The Metlen Technologies Hub in Volos is one of Greece’s largest industrial defense projects. At full capacity, it will comprise six independent factories capable of supporting six different defense programs simultaneously.

Metlen also approved the construction of a fourth high-tech facility, with a budget of €50 million, expected to become operational in the first half of 2027, creating 200–250 new jobs. The plant will cover approximately 10,000 sq.m and feature advanced machining and tank production equipment.

This expansion follows the visit of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to Metlen’s Volos facilities in June 2025, highlighting the project’s strategic importance for Greek industrial and defense autonomy.

Other Collaborations and Future Moves

This agreement complements Metlen’s other strategic partnerships:

• In March 2025, Metlen signed a Memorandum of Exclusive Cooperation with Iveco Defence Vehicles (IDV) for the modernization of military truck fleets in the Hellenic Armed Forces, with production planned at the Volos hub.
• In April 2025, Metlen formed an exclusive partnership with KNDS France for the production of the VBCI PHILOCTETES® 8×8 infantry fighting vehicle, covering Greek and broader European defense needs.

Metlen and KNDS are also in advanced negotiations to expand collaboration into other defense systems, creating highly specialized jobs in Greece and supporting innovative technology development across Europe.

Overall Impact

The new KNDS Deutschland deal reinforces Metlen’s strategic focus on high-tech defense production, making Volos a key hub for European and international defense equipment. Investments in infrastructure, job creation, and partnerships with leading international defense players position Greece as a major contributor to European defense capabilities, with positive implications for the domestic economy and geopolitical influence.

Source: pagenews.gr