In times of growing global tensions and security policy challenges, Munich-based startup Arx Robotics and Cologne-based industrial conglomerate Deutz are intensifying their cooperation. Both companies plan to jointly produce unmanned, software-defined systems in series, thereby meeting the growing demand for scalable defense technology in Europe.
During a roundtable at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Arx Robotics and Deutz signed the agreement on strategic cooperation in the presence of Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche.
The partnership was already announced in October 2025 (Munich Startup reported), and the subsequent expansion of the cooperation marks an important step. While Arx Robotics provides software and robotics expertise, Deutz brings its experience in propulsion, energy, and production systems. Together, they aim to create a scalable production platform that makes Europe’s land forces less dependent on suppliers from outside Europe.
Deutz is participating as a minority investor in the Munich startup, thereby placing the long-term cooperation on a solid foundation. Both companies are financing technology development and production expansion from their own resources to ensure economic independence and strategic flexibility.
Marc Wietfeld, CEO and co-founder of Arx Robotics, explains:
“With this partnership, we demonstrate that Europe can strengthen its defense capabilities through its own efforts. Arx brings unmanned, software-defined systems, Deutz brings industrial power and propulsion expertise – together we provide our land forces with the necessary volume of unmanned systems.”
Industry meets high-tech: Munich becomes a hub
The cooperation goes beyond pure product integration. Both companies are developing an interface that connects Arx Robotics’ AI platform Mithra OS with Deutz’s propulsion systems. This creates a modular architecture that links different drive forms – battery-electric, hybrid, or conventional – with intelligent control systems. Deutz also provides mobile energy infrastructure, including power generators, storage solutions, and swap batteries.
Marco Herre, CEO of Deutz Defense, emphasizes:
“Unmanned and semi-autonomous defense systems are becoming increasingly important and will be a central component of future armed forces. These partnerships made in Germany are what we need to sustainably strengthen Europe’s defense capabilities.”
By leveraging Deutz’s international production and service network, Arx Robotics can now realize larger orders more quickly. This partnership thus combines the agility of a startup with the manufacturing depth of an industrial company – a model that could set an example across Europe.
