ELVO and Rheinmetall sign memorandum of understanding to strengthen defense production in Greece
Hellenic Vehicle Industry S.A. (ELVO) and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH (RMMV) have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the launch of a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening Greece’s defence manufacturing capabilities and supporting the operational requirements of the Hellenic Armed Forces.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation covering the integration of infrastructure—including advanced superstructures such as air defence systems—as well as the assembly of military trucks tailored to the needs of the Hellenic Army, Navy and Air Force. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to delivering high-performance, mission-ready solutions, while enhancing Greece’s defence autonomy, ELVO said in a statement. A key pillar of the partnership is the further upgrade and expansion of ELVO’s production line. This development is expected to create new high-skilled jobs and stimulate the broader regional business ecosystem, promoting long-term industrial growth and innovation.
As highlighted in the announcement, ELVO’s facilities in Thessaloniki constitute a cornerstone of Greece’s defence industrial base, with a long-standing track record in vehicle manufacturing, modernisation and support. ELVO, a member of the SK Group—a leading holding company known for fostering innovation across multiple strategic sectors—aims to play a significant role in serving both domestic and international clients. The plant offers extensive production, assembly and maintenance capabilities, positioning it as a strategic hub for future defence programmes.
Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH contributes to the partnership with its extensive portfolio of logistics and tactical vehicles, ranging from militarised commercial platforms to fully military high-mobility trucks. Available in configurations from 4×4 to 10×10, these vehicles are designed for the most demanding off-road environments and can be tailored to a wide range of operational profiles. Globally recognised for their durability and modular design, they offer outstanding operational reliability across diverse conditions. Through this collaboration, ELVO and RMMV aim to combine local expertise with international experience, creating a robust industrial base to support Greece’s defence needs while contributing to economic growth.
“A significant milestone”
“Cooperation with Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH represents a significant milestone for ELVO and for the future of the Greek defence industry,” said ELVO Chief Executive Officer Antonis Vitetzakis. “By combining ELVO’s established production base and local expertise with Rheinmetall’s global experience and advanced vehicle technologies, we are creating a strong platform for delivering mission-ready solutions to the Hellenic Armed Forces. Equally important, this partnership enhances Greece’s national industrial capabilities, creates opportunities for economic growth, and positions Thessaloniki as a strategic hub for defence production and innovation.”
