Europe defence boom aids machinery makers

European military spending creates new growth markets for machinery and plant engineering firms. A VDMA survey shows many companies expect strong revenue gains through 2030 despite procurement hurdles.

A wheeled self-propelled howitzer RCH 155 from KNDS is displayed as the German army Bundeswehr establishes Artillery Battalion 215 for the 21st Armored Brigade in Augustdorf, Germany, October 7, 2025. REUTERS/Teresa Kroeger

European military spending is opening a fast-growing market for mechanical engineering firms, with 43% of suppliers expecting to double related revenue by 2030. The shift provides a new commercial avenue for industrial manufacturers based in Germany and across the continent. The expansion offers diversified revenue streams for equipment makers navigating sluggish demand in traditional commercial sectors.