EST Energetics becomes part of Diehl Defence

Diehl Defence has signed an agreement with General Atomics Europe, the former owner of EST Energetics GmbH in Rothenburg/Saxony, to acquire the company. A subsidiary of Diehl Defence will take over the business operations of EST Energetics. The legal transfer will take place on July 1, 2026.

Since its founding in 1994, EST Energetics has been involved in the recycling of lithium-metal batteries, airbag disposal, the recycling of fireworks, as well as the demilitarization of military equipment, and currently has more than 60 employees. Diehl Defence intends to continue business operations with the current workforce and to expand its activities in the field of military equipment disposal.

With this acquisition, Diehl Defence is expanding its range of services in the field of explosive ordnance disposal, thereby strengthening its market position as one of the leading partners for explosive ordnance management in Germany.

General Atomics Europe will accompany the transition and support future business operations through close cooperation with Diehl Defence. The acquisition will have no impact on the EST Energetics workforce. The company will also continue to offer its services as usual.

The acquisition and integration into the organization of Diehl Defence provide a foundation for the stable continuation of business operations at the Rothenburg location and long-term prospects for stimulating the regional economy in Upper Lusatia.