The Lithuanian cabinet endorsed this decision as Rheinmetall advances plans to establish a 155mm artillery ammunition factory in Lithuania. This move aligns with Lithuania’s strategic aim to secure a reliable source of ammunition from a local manufacturer, minimizing potential supply risks tied to foreign markets.
Rheinmetall is set to invest over €180 million in the construction of the ammunition plant, which will be located in the Radviliškis district in northern Lithuania. This development is expected to create at least 150 new jobs, marking a substantial boost to the local economy while strengthening Lithuania’s defence manufacturing base.
The Defence Ministry emphasised the importance of this step, noting that local production of artillery shells would “reduce the Lithuanian Armed Forces’ dependence on external factors” and enable better production control. Producing ammunition within the country, the Ministry added, ensures quicker and more reliable supply chains, which are critical during periods of heightened defence needs.
Defence Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas highlighted that local manufacturing was a key condition in Lithuania’s agreement with Rheinmetall.
Source: lrt.lt.
