75th anniversary

Heckler & Koch is marking its 75th anniversary this year. At a ceremonial event held at the company’s headquarters in Oberndorf on 16 May, representatives from politics, the Bundeswehr, industry and society paid tribute to the company’s unique history and its role as a reliable partner for armed forces and security agencies within NATO and the EU.

Since its foundation in 1949, Heckler & Koch has developed into a leading manufacturer of small arms – renowned for quality, innovation and reliability. As the main supplier to the Bundeswehr as well as numerous police and security agencies, the company stands for responsible high technology “Made in Germany”.

“We are proud of 75 years of Heckler & Koch,” said CEO Dr Jens Bodo Koch in his anniversary speech. “Our company is deeply rooted in the region, yet globally connected – and our products contribute to the security of democratic societies. This anniversary is above all thanks to our employees, who have contributed to our success with their expertise, commitment and passion.”

Dr Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister for Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism, emphasised the company’s significance for the economic region of Baden-Württemberg:

“We are currently experiencing epochal upheavals. The world is changing at record speed. Europe must find its place in this and develop a sovereignty appropriate for a global economic power. Sovereignty means standing on our own two economic feet and being able to defend ourselves. For 75 years, Heckler & Koch has made a significant contribution to this sovereignty and, with innovation and perfection, is the responsible and reliable partner for security forces, police and emergency services of NATO and associated states. As an internationally oriented group based here in Oberndorf am Neckar, Heckler & Koch, together with its subsidiaries in the USA, France and the United Kingdom, makes an essential contribution to the protection of freedom and democracy in Europe and worldwide.”

Lieutenant General Andreas Marlow, Deputy Inspector of the Army, highlighted the long-standing partnership with Heckler & Koch:

“What we have always experienced with your products: Heckler & Koch stands for reliability, for precision and for robustness. In short: For qualities our soldiers can – and must – rely on.”

With around 1,300 employees in Germany and the USA, Heckler & Koch is now represented in almost all NATO and EU member states. For the coming years, the company will continue to focus on innovation, quality and close partnerships with its customers – in the spirit of freedom, security and responsibility.

About Heckler & Koch

Heckler & Koch is a leading supplier of small arms for government security forces. The company, headquartered in Oberndorf am Neckar, supplies armed forces, authorities and special units in NATO and EU member states – with the highest standards of precision, reliability and sustainability. Under the guiding principle “Protecting Freedom – No Compromise”, Heckler & Koch stands for responsible defence technology in the 21st century.