From Krupp to Rheinmetall: Is Europe Repeating an Old Mistake

Rheinmetall is one of the largest arms manufacturers in Europe, producing tanks, artillery, ammunition, and other heavy systems. The company has become one of the central pillars of Europe's rearmament. Against the backdrop of Russia's war against Ukraine, it is through companies like this that the EU is trying to rapidly expand its military capabilities. Europe is betting on this model.

Before World War I, Krupp — the largest artillery manufacturer in Germany — shaped the vision of war: more steel, larger calibers, greater firepower. Today, Rheinmetall reproduces a similar logic through tanks, artillery, ammunition, and other expensive systems. The industry shapes the understanding of war around its own products.

The emphasis on firepower embodied by Krupp did not deliver a quick victory. Despite the massive use of artillery by both sides, the front stabilized, and the war turned into positional warfare. Offensive operations required enormous resources, resulted in heavy losses, and failed to produce decisive outcomes.