Lower Saxony, Rafael and Aurelius Sign Osnabrück Air-Defense Declaration

Lower Saxony, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Aurelius Capital signed a joint declaration aimed at turning Volkswagen’s Osnabrück plant into a security and defense technology center. The initial anchor project would examine German production of systems and components for air-defense systems serving Germany and Europe. Volkswagen and Aurelius also agreed key terms for a possible sale, with Aurelius becoming majority owner alongside Lower Saxony, subject to final agreements, corporate approvals and regulatory review. Volkswagen plans to end vehicle production there in summer 2027, while its works council said the transition offers prospects for more than 1,200 employees.