The German defense giant Rheinmetall plans to start producing 155-mm artillery shells at its own plant in Ukraine as early as 2026. Initially, the company considered an annual production volume of 150,000 units; however, after completing the capacity expansion phase, which will last one to two years, this figure will be increased to 300,000 shells per year.
This is reported by Business • Media
Shell Production: Ambitious Plans and Challenges
Rheinmetall’s CEO Armin Papperger emphasized that it was Ukraine that initiated the creation of the joint venture, as it seeks to reduce dependence on imported ammunition. At the same time, he noted that further increases in production volumes are currently limited by the financial capabilities of the Ukrainian side.
“The construction of the plant in Unterlüß, Germany, and in Ukraine began almost simultaneously, but the facility in Germany is already completed, while the Ukrainian one is still under construction,” Papperger stated.
Cooperation Between Ukraine and Germany in Defense
In addition to developing its own production, representatives from Ukraine and Germany recently held talks regarding the supply of ammunition, missiles for missile defense, long-range systems, Patriot air defense systems, and prospects for joint weapon manufacturing. Such initiatives aim to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and contribute to the development of the country’s modern military-industrial complex.