Europe and U.S. are working together to strengthen defence production in response to growing global military threats, NATO Chief Mark Rutte said Wednesday.

Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, Rutte warned that Russia and China are rapidly expanding their militaries with little transparency. He said Russia plans to deploy at least 1,500 tanks, 3,000 armoured vehicles and hundreds of Iskander missiles this year, while China controls the world’s largest navy and several of the largest defence companies globally.

“Their defence industries are producing weapons and equipment at an incredible rate—not just for display, but to secure influence, project power and challenge the rules-based international order,” Rutte said.

Rutte stressed that financial and industrial commitments are essential. He noted that Germany has pledged nearly €153 billion in defence spending by 2029 and highlighted Rheinmetall’s factory, which plans to produce 350,000 artillery shells annually.

However, he added that money alone is not enough. “We fight with well-equipped, well-trained troops who need ships, jets, tanks, drones and ammunition. NATO’s defence industries must produce and deliver faster than ever,” Rutte said.

He also called for increasing production of advanced capabilities such as tanks, air defence systems and missiles, while reducing reliance on critical raw materials sourced from abroad.

Linking defence to economic growth, Rutte said, “Increased defence production is an engine of economic growth. Congratulations on this important opening.”

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