Rheinmetall will increase production of ammunition, including for Ukraine

The ceremony of laying the symbolic foundation of the new factory on Monday was attended by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Denmark Matte Frederiksen, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, and many politicians.

In his speech on the spot, Scholz called this day "a special day for the security of the whole Europe".

The scope of the project and the speed with which it is being implemented are impressive, the chancellor noted.

Scholz noted the importance of independence in the issue of weapons production. Before the “epochal changes” triggered by Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine, too little thought was given to this, and the Bundeswehr’s reserves were almost depleted. Now it has become clear that we need to produce and produce a lot, and for this we need to order. With the help of the new factory, Germany can guarantee the long-term ammunition needs and needs of partners in Europe.

The production capacity of the future factory, which should begin production next year, will be 200 thousand artillery ammunition per year (in the first year - 100 thousand). In the future, up to 1,900 tons of hexogen explosives and, if necessary, other components for the production of ammunition will be produced here every year. In addition, on-site production of rocket engines and, if necessary, warheads, such as those needed for the planned German rocket artillery project, will be produced. Subsequently, the factory will also produce Puma tanks.

Investments in the enterprise, according to the company’s information, will reach about 300 million euros; about 500 new jobs will be created.

“To ensure Germany’s strategic sovereignty in the field of ammunition production, we are creating a national production facility that will set new standards and, above all, ensure supplies for the Bundeswehr,” said CEO Armin Papperger.

According to him, this creates another European center for the production of artillery ammunition, which will be a significant contribution to the defense capability of Germany and NATO partners.

In addition, Germany will be able to increase supplies of ammunition to Ukraine.

With the new plant, Rheinmetall creates the opportunity to meet the needs of the Bundeswehr independently of national production and - especially in the event of a crisis - to guarantee independent sales to partner countries.

The experience of the war in Ukraine testifies to the enormous need for artillery ammunition, the concern notes.