Germans protest Rheinmetall's plans for Berlin arms factory

As Germany boosts defense production, a plan by arms maker Rheinmetall to convert a Berlin auto parts factory into a facility for producing artillery shell casings is drawing protests.

Activists warn that the factory would fuel militarization and cost lives. Supporters say the plan would boost defense and manufacturing capacity for Germany and its allies in Europe.

The debate highlights Germany's struggle to balance economic interests, security needs and public concerns about the growing role of the defense industry.