Panattoni and Rheinmetall Immobilien GmbH are jointly initiating the development of a logistics and training centre on the site of the former Kassel-Calden Airport. The project envisages a construction start on 1 December 2026 and a planned completion by 30 June 2027. This undertaking underlines the efforts to expand and modernise infrastructural capacities in the defence sector.
The planned logistics centre will cover a total area of approximately 31,100 m² and is intended to serve as a central hub for material storage, handling and provision. In addition, a training centre with approximately 6,900 m² of building area will be constructed, designed for training courses and work on technical components. Rheinmetall plans to create up to 200 long-term jobs at this new location.
Strategic Expansion in the Defence Sector
By taking on this contract, Panattoni continues its expansion as a project developer in the defence sector within Germany. The company leverages its existing expertise and comprehensive market knowledge. Fred-Markus Bohne, Managing Partner at Panattoni DACH & Nordics, stated that the defence sector demands a high degree of security, speed and technological precision in the provision of its infrastructure. He emphasised that for Panattoni, defence real estate is not a short-term trend but a strategic cornerstone for a secure, future-proof Europe.
Panattoni is responsible for managing the entire project in Kassel-Calden, from approval planning and coordination with authorities to completion. For on-site implementation, the company relies on an established network of experienced local partners. This close cooperation enables the acceleration of approval processes despite the ambitious timeline. Extensive experience in customer-specific project developments, particularly in handling high security requirements and proactive planning, forms the basis for swift and efficient realisation. The construction period for the entire project, including the training centre, is estimated at around seven months.
Strengthening the Nordhessen Region
The logistics and training centre is part of the broader "Defence Hub Nordhessen". The Hessian state government and Rheinmetall intend to develop the Kassel location into a centre for modern defence technology with a joint investment in the triple-digit million range. Hesse's Minister President Boris Rhein noted that the Defence Hub Nordhessen combines Kassel's industrial strength with the strategic infrastructure of Kassel Airport, thereby promoting investment, innovation and growth in the region. Holger Gradzielski, Global Head of Real Estate at Rheinmetall, confirmed that Panattoni is the right partner for this demanding project, based on intensive exchange and an understanding of Rheinmetall's goals.
