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Rafael Advanced Defense Systems considers Tamir missile production in India
Euronews reported that the Israeli firm is evaluating a production site in India for Iron Dome interceptor missiles. The shift could end consideration of Volkswagen's Osnabrück plant as an alternative location.
Jul 14, 1:48 AM·1m read1 source
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Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is considering setting up production of Tamir interceptor missiles for the Iron Dome system in India. Euronews reported that the move could remove Volkswagen's Osnabrück plant from consideration as a production site for Iron Dome components.
Volkswagen confirmed in spring 2026 that it was in talks with defense industry companies about the future of the Osnabrück plant.
Rafael signed a memorandum of understanding for the site in April 2026, with the plan to manufacture components for the Israeli missile defence system there. Vehicle production at the plant is scheduled to end in 2027. Approximately 2,300 jobs at the Osnabrück plant depend on a follow-up solution.
The Qatar Investment Authority has reservations about Volkswagen working with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. Euronews reported that the Qatari fund, which holds around 17 percent of Volkswagen's voting rights and two seats on the supervisory board, made negotiations more difficult. Rafael already operates a production line for Tamir interceptor missiles in Arkansas together with Raytheon.
Business magazine Capital reported that the state of Lower Saxony is considering taking a stake in the Osnabrück site to support a transition to possible arms production. A decision on the plant's future has not yet been taken.
