International strategy

: economic diplomacy on the example of Rheinmetall Group

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the characteristics of the German and European defence industrial base and explores the various strategic options available to defence companies, both in terms of internationalization and with regard to economic diplomacy. In doing so, the paper identifies four stages of internationalization, three main groups of economic diplomacy, and five types of lobbyism activities. Where applicable, the paper distinguishes between small and large enterprises because of the unequal resource base, international experience, and political influence that constitute the two groups. In the end, Rheinmetall Defence, the biggest completely German arms manufacturer, is analyzed thoroughly and the elaborated theoretical concepts are applied and compared with the company’s strategic actions. The company is currently heading for a global expansion into markets such as Poland, Romania, Saudi-Arabia and Australia. It is described which tools of internationalization are used by Rheinmetall, and how the company pursues its lobbying activities and benefits from political economic diplomacy.

Date of Award	19 Jul 2017
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Ricardo Reis (Supervisor)