Saxony-Anhalt Leader Links Arms Production to Deportation Campaigns

Germany's hard-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is pushing to bring a weapons manufacturer into its state, arguing that such facilities would generate the necessary tools for mass deportations of immigrants. Ulrich Siegmund, the likely leader of Saxony-Anhalt in eastern Germany, made these remarks at a press conference on Thursday regarding a planned defense investment in Sangerhausen. When questioned about building domestic arms production, he stated the party had no objection.

'We do not condemn the production of military equipment across the board, because we will naturally need the appropriate resources for future repatriation and deportation campaigns,' Siegmund declared. He framed this stance as a matter of internal security, national stability, and defense. The comment suggests a clear link between industrial output and immigration policy goals that few other politicians would openly admit.

Local broadcaster MDR reported that Israel's Elbit Systems is currently in talks to construct a plant in the area. This facility would manufacture components for other German companies rather than complete weapon systems, drones, or artillery shells. City officials insist no finished weapons would leave the site, though the project could create up to 400 jobs.

Elbit Systems Deutschland told Reuters on Friday that it continuously evaluates opportunities for expansion but has not yet selected specific locations. 'As a long-standing partner, the company operates across several locations in Germany, employs hundreds of German employees and continues to strengthen its local industrial presence,' the firm said. Siegmund admitted his government would want to use any weapons produced there for mass deportations.

The AfD is seeking to form a state government after winning a historic election victory just short of an outright majority. The party has pledged immediate deportations, citizen patrols, and separate classrooms for refugee children. Siegmund noted the party was monitoring developments in Sangerhausen closely. 'We want to take a close look at exactly what is being produced and under what conditions, and whether this runs the risk of involving us in foreign conflicts,' he said.

Support for this project could complicate negotiations with the left-wing populist BSW. The BSW is currently the only party not to rule out cooperation with the AfD. Like the AfD, the BSW opposes German military support for Ukraine and has campaigned against the Sangerhausen initiative. They reject economic arguments used to attract foreign defense manufacturers to their region.