German defense technology group Rheinmetall is in talks to take over the shipyard in Mangalia, Romania

German defense technology group Rheinmetall is in intensive talks with the Romanian government regarding a potential takeover or acquisition of a stake in the shipyard in Mangalia. The negotiations are taking place at a critical moment for the Black Sea naval facility, which is facing serious financial difficulties, BalkanEngineer.com learned from the regional English-language publication Romania-Insider.

The Romanian Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, which holds a 51% majority stake in the joint venture Damen Shipyards Mangalia, is actively participating in the discussions. The remaining 49% is owned by the Dutch group Damen.

Rheinmetall’s entry into the equation could redirect the capacity of the Mangalia shipyard toward the defense sector and military shipbuilding, which is in line with the heightened security measures along NATO’s eastern flank and in the Black Sea region. The German company already has a strong presence in Romania, having recently acquired a majority stake in the Romanian military vehicle manufacturer Automecanica Mediaș and expressed interest in expanding its industrial base in the country through local production and maintenance of military equipment.

In parallel with the talks regarding Mangalia, the German company is also exploring opportunities for cooperation with another Romanian shipyard in Constanța. Romanian authorities are of the view that a potential agreement with Rheinmetall would not only save hundreds of jobs in the Mangalia region but also transform the facility into a strategic center for the repair, modernization, and construction of naval vessels and logistical infrastructure for regional defense needs.

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