BELFAST — France and Germany have reached an agreement establishing equal ownership in European defense company KNDS as preparations for a potential initial public offering progress.
According to a joint statement, the Franco-German pact aims to enhance mutual sovereignty in land defense initiatives.
France currently holds a 50% stake, which is projected to decrease to 40%, while Germany is pursuing an equivalent share, pending budget committee approval, as stated by government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius.
The pact emphasizes long-term shareholder commitment, balanced governance, and security oversight, as outlined in the agreement.
The framework also supports a potential IPO for KNDS, which could occur as early as tomorrow, per Bloomberg reports.
This development marks a major step since KNDS’ 2015 creation through a joint venture between Nexter Systems (France) and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMV). The company specializes in Leopard 2 tanks, Leclerc main battle tanks, and various armored vehicles.
The agreement’s goals include boosting European defense demand, fostering technical and commercial synergies, and reinforcing supply chain resilience.
Additionally, KNDS completed a delivery of 110 modernized Stridsvagn 123 Leopard 2 tanks to Sweden’s FMV procurement agency.
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