Europe Prepares Its Factories for War as Russian Threat Grows
Germany’s ARX Robotics is seeking to persuade European carmakers to repurpose their production lines to manufacture military robots on a large scale, according to the Financial Times.
Rather than building entirely new defense factories, the initiative aims to use existing industrial capacity to rapidly produce autonomous ground vehicles.
ARX plans to increase its annual production eightfold to 8,000 robots. Hundreds if its “Gereon” unmanned vehicles are already reportedly operating in Ukraine, where they are used to transport supplies and evacuate wounded soldiers.
The company is working with engine manufacturer Deutz and industrial supplier Schaeffler, while also holding discussions with Bosch.
The initiative highlights a growing shift in Europe’s defense strategy, as civilian industries could increasingly be mobilized to strengthen military production amid concerns over a potential prolonged confrontation with Russia.