Rheinmetall plans to significantly increase the capacity of the artillery ammunition plant under construction in Ukraine, boosting annual production of 155mm shells from the initially planned 150,000 to 300,000 rounds.
According to the company’s CEO, Armin Papperger, this decision was made at the request of the Ukrainian side, which aims to reduce dependence on foreign supplies and strengthen its own defense industry.
Although construction in Ukraine is progressing more slowly than a similar project in Germany, the production launch timeline remains unchanged. Ammunition production is planned to begin in 2026, with the plant reaching full capacity within one to two years.
At the same time, Papperger once again noted that he faces serious bureaucratic barriers both in Ukraine and within the company itself, which he believes are slowing down the project’s implementation.
Nevertheless, even at the current pace, the increased production volume will allow Ukraine to significantly strengthen its position and reduce dependence on partner assistance in supplying 155mm ammunition.
