In Slovakia, after more than thirty-six years, production of hulls for BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicles has resumed, which will serve as a key reinforcement for the Ukrainian armed forces. The revival of production was carried out by STV Group at the facility in Dubnica nad Váhom, where the first prototype of the new armored vehicle has already been assembled and successfully passed mobility tests.
This is reported by Business • Media
Mass Production of Armored Vehicles for the Ukrainian Army
The resumption of the plant’s operations goes beyond merely restoring old equipment. It now involves establishing serial production of new hulls for BMP-1 armored vehicles, which is planned to be launched in 2026–2027. The expected production capacity will be up to 100 units per year. Analysts believe that the most likely customer for this equipment is Ukraine, which actively operates and modernizes BMP-1s and has trained crews. This project is important for Ukraine due to the need for affordable yet effective combat vehicles. The main supply format involves delivering ready chassis to Ukraine without turrets, allowing them to install their own combat modules later.
“The plant in Dubnica nad Váhom was launched by STV Group, which has already produced a prototype that passed mobility tests. This is not just a restoration of old vehicles – it is about mass production of new hulls for armored vehicles, which is planned to be launched in 2026-2027 with a capacity of up to 100 units per year.”
Belarus is Building an Ammunition Plant with the Participation of Russia and China
At the same time, a secret project aimed at creating production of artillery and rocket ammunition of Soviet calibers – 122 mm and 152 mm – has been underway in Belarus since November 2023. The new plant in the Minsk region is planned to be completed by December 2026. Russia and China are involved in the project. According to plans, the produced ammunition is intended to be supplied to Russia, which continues its armed aggression against Ukraine.