Photo Courtesy of MEDC
Mission highlights Michigan’s global competitiveness in defense, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing
LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer has launched an investment and trade mission to Germany aimed at strengthening international partnerships, attracting new investment, and reinforcing Michigan’s leadership in defense, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. The trip is already delivering results, including a major expansion by RENK Group expected to create approximately 300 new jobs in Michigan.
“Michigan’s manufacturing economy plays a critical role in protecting our national security,” said Governor Whitmer. “During this mission, we are meeting with global business and security leaders at the Munich Security Conference and securing new investments that will create good-paying jobs back home. We remain focused on growing our economy and bringing home projects that help Michigan lead the future of manufacturing, defense, and aerospace.”
RENK Expansion Brings New Investment and Jobs
As part of her initial engagements in Germany, Governor Whitmer visited RENK Group’s global headquarters, where she joined company leadership to announce plans for a significant Michigan expansion. RENK intends to invest $70 million in capital expenditures and $100 million in research and development in Michigan by 2030.
The expansion will strengthen RENK’s Michigan footprint and support operations at its existing facilities in Muskegon, Sterling Heights, and Roseville. RENK’s U.S. subsidiaries currently employ more than 540 Michigan workers.
Company leaders cited Michigan’s skilled workforce, industrial base, and supportive business climate as key factors in the decision.
Germany Remains a Key Investment Partner
Germany continues to be one of Michigan’s most important international partners. Since 2019, German companies have launched 64 investment projects in Michigan totaling $1.8 billion in foreign direct investment. Germany ranks as Michigan’s fourth-largest source of international investment.
The current mission builds on prior successes. During a 2025 mission to Germany, Michigan secured a $31.7 million investment from American Rheinmetall that created 450 new jobs. German firms, including major automotive and industrial technology companies, maintain significant operations and partnerships in Michigan, with ongoing investment in mobility R&D, electrification, energy systems, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Spotlight on Defense and Aerospace
A major focus of the Germany mission is Michigan’s growing role in the defense and aerospace sectors. The state is home to a robust ecosystem of defense contractors, research institutions, and military assets that support U.S. and allied readiness.
Michigan officials participating in the mission emphasized the state’s unique ability to support defense innovation at scale, supported by advanced manufacturing capacity and a deep talent pipeline.
Recent initiatives underscore this momentum, including the Michigan Maritime Strategy and the Michigan Maritime Manufacturing (M3) initiative, both designed to strengthen naval and maritime capabilities and reinforce the nation’s defense industrial base.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Defense recently designated Michigan’s National All-Domain Warfighting Center as a national range for uncrewed aerial systems testing. The designation reflects the state’s combination of available airspace, permissive drone testing policies, and proximity to technology innovators.
Engagement at the Munich Security Conference
Governor Whitmer will also participate in the Munich Security Conference, where she is scheduled to join discussions on the future of U.S. foreign policy and highlight Michigan’s contributions to national defense and global supply chain resilience.
State leaders say the conference provides a high-level platform to promote Michigan’s capabilities in defense manufacturing, aerospace technology, and secure supply chains.
Supporting Long-Term Economic Growth
The investment mission is part of Michigan’s broader strategy to attract global investment, support existing employers, and grow industries critical to both economic prosperity and national security.
The mission is supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, which works to advance private investment, job creation, and wage growth across the state.
With continued international engagement and targeted industry development, Michigan is positioning itself as a premier destination for defense, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing investment.
