Rheinmetall is to expand its plant engineering portfolio by acquiring a majority stake in the business of Resonant Holdings (Pty) Ltd, a leading South African specialist in plant engineering for chemical applications. An agreement to this effect has now been signed. Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH will hold 51% of the shares in a newly formed joint venture Rheinmetall Resonant South Africa, and the current Resonant Holding shareholders will possess the remaining 49%. The company to be founded expects an annual sales potential of more than EUR 100 million.

The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. The transaction and the final company name are still subject to customary regulatory approvals.

The planned acquisition is Rheinmetall’s response to the growing global demand in the ammunition sector and the resulting customer requirements for the construction of corresponding production facilities. Rheinmetall is therefore significantly expanding its existing capabilities in ammunition production by vertically integrating further competences, thus positioning itself even more robustly for the independent planning, construction and operation of production facilities for the manufacture of chemical products such as propellant powder and explosives.

Resonant Holdings employs around 150 people and brings proven experience and outstanding expertise in designing and constructing specialised plants. This includes production facilities for chemical and explosives products. Resonant’s leading expertise complements Rheinmetall’s plant engineering capabilities, particularly in the fields of chemical, energetic, and explosives technology, industrialization, and manufacturing. This expands Rheinmetall’s ability to offer a comprehensive range of services, including the design, construction and commissioning of state-of-the-art plants tailored to the specific needs of our global partners.

At the same time, the partnership offers Resonant a strong global reach, industry expansion and access to new markets.  The combined expertise of both entities will drive innovation and efficiency, delivering unparalleled value to customers. Rheinmetall aims to preserve the company’s existing technology and workforce.

The planned acquisition of Resonant Holdings underscores Rheinmetall’s dedication to expanding its technological capabilities and delivering state-of-the-art solutions to its partners. This strategic acquisition of the controlling stake ensures that Rheinmetall remains at the forefront of innovation in the engineering and defence industries, providing unparalleled expertise and comprehensive solutions.

If “Innovation is a Special Operation”, ONE9’s team just got a whole lot stronger.ONE9 is thrilled to announce the appointment of Davin Michaelis as Senior Technical and Tactical Advisor. Michaelis, a recently retired US Special Mission Unit (SMU) Sergeant Major, brings unparalleled expertise and experience to the team.

Throughout Michaelis’ twenty-one deployments, he distinguished himself at the highest level of strategic military operations including leadership roles in three presidentially approved operations. Known for his exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and operational excellence he has demonstrated his prowess in some of the most challenging environments and operations globally. His deep and extensive experience in national security, intelligence, and special operations sets him apart as a leader of the highest pedigree.

In his new role at ONE9, Michaelis will be based in Warsaw, Poland. He will provide a unique and invaluable lens to target, validate, and provide deep tactical and technical diligence to help guide ONE9’s investment and innovation priorities. His strategic vision and tactical expertise will be instrumental in advancing ONE9’s initiatives and ensuring the highest standards of performance and innovation.

“I’ve been tracking ONE9 for a while now, and am proud to join a firm who contributes as much to national security in their private sector capability as we did when we were in uniform,” Michalis said.

“Davin is no joke, and I am deeply humbled to have gained the trust of a leader with Davin’s character, curiosity and mission focus,” said Glenn Cowan, Founder and Managing Partner of ONE9. “As ONE9 expands our presence globally, it is critical to align with our most important allies”. Cowan went on to say, “At ONE9 we equate venture capital to a special operations mission and since our former Units fought together, it’s a natural fit to expand our shared vision and culture to build one of the most impactful investment and innovation firms focused on national security.” His unparalleled experience and leadership will be a tremendous asset as we continue to drive forward our mission and expand our capabilities.”