Governor Whitmer’s Strategic Visit to Germany Enhances Michigan’s Defense Industry Prospects
LANSING, Mich. – In a strategic move to bolster Michigan’s standing in the global defense industry, Governor Gretchen Whitmer embarked on an investment mission to Germany. The initiative aims to solidify Michigan’s role in national security through new investments and partnerships.
“Michigan’s manufacturing economy has a critical role to play in protecting our national security,” stated Governor Whitmer. “On this investment mission to Germany, we’re meeting with global business and strategic allies at the Munich Security Conference and securing a major expansion from RENK to create 300 good-paying jobs back home. We will continue to stay focused on growing our economy and bring home more projects to help us lead the future of manufacturing, defense, and aerospace. Let’s keep telling Michigan’s story and leading on issues that matter nationally and globally.”
During her visit, Governor Whitmer will engage with business leaders and international security figures to highlight Michigan’s competitive edge in the defense sector, aiming to foster relationships that translate into investments and job creation.
Accompanying Governor Whitmer are U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers and Col. John T. Gutierrez. Their presence underscores the importance of this mission in enhancing Michigan’s defense and aerospace sectors.
Governor Whitmer kicked off her engagements by visiting RENK Group, where she and CEO Dr. Alexander Sagel announced RENK’s expansion plans in Michigan. The company intends to invest $70 million in capital expenditures and $100 million in research and development by 2030, resulting in approximately 300 new jobs.
“After meeting Governor Whitmer in Ann Arbor last year, I am honored to welcome her to RENK’s global headquarters and to reaffirm our commitment to serving as a trusted supplier to the U.S. military and allied forces,” said Dr. Alexander Sagel. “This reflects our confidence in Michigan’s talented workforce, strong industrial base, and supportive business environment.”
RENK America and Horstman, RENK’s U.S. subsidiaries in Michigan, currently employ over 540 workers across their facilities. This expansion aims to enhance Michigan’s leadership in advanced manufacturing.
Germany stands as a significant partner for Michigan, being the fourth-largest international investor in the state. Since 2019, Germany has initiated 64 projects worth $1.8 billion in foreign direct investment. Notable investments include Rheinmetall’s $31.7 million investment and Volkswagen’s recent $13 million commitment to retain over 900 jobs in the state.
At the Munich Security Conference, Team Michigan will emphasize the state’s pivotal role in national defense, supported by its network of defense and aerospace companies and research institutions.
“Michigan is uniquely positioned to support defense and aerospace innovation at scale,” said Col. Gutierrez. “This mission sends a clear signal that Michigan is open for business, ready to partner with allies, and committed to growing the technologies, workforce, and supply chains that underpin our national security.”
Michigan’s defense sector is a cornerstone of the state’s economy. Recent initiatives such as the Michigan Maritime Strategy and the Michigan Maritime Manufacturing initiative are strengthening naval capabilities.
“Michigan plays a critical role in advancing national defense priorities through its integrated ecosystem of defense and aerospace industries, research institutions and military assets,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers. He emphasized the significance of the National All-Domain Warfighting Center as a national range for uncrewed aerial systems testing, enhancing U.S. and allied forces’ readiness.
Governor Whitmer’s participation in the Munich Security Conference will further spotlight Michigan’s growing influence in the defense industrial base, reinforcing the state’s commitment to attracting global investments and supporting key industries.
This investment mission is supported by the MEDC and the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing economic development initiatives that drive private investment, job creation, and wage growth in Michigan.
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