The new venture, dubbed the “Ukrainian Ammunition Competence Center,” is set to produce six-figure quantities of 155mm caliber shells annually, along with the necessary propellants. Rheinmetall will hold a 51% stake in the joint venture, with the remaining 49% owned by the Ukrainian partner.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, emphasized the significant demand for artillery ammunition, particularly in Ukraine. He stated, “Our intention to establish another joint venture there underscores Rheinmetall’s commitment to supporting the country. This joint venture will significantly contribute to Ukraine’s defence capability and, by extension, to security in Europe.”
Papperger further highlighted Rheinmetall’s role as a key defence industrial partner for Ukraine, with ongoing projects worth several billion euros. The company aims to rebuild Ukraine’s once-strong defence industry and ensure the autonomy of Ukrainian capabilities.
Rheinmetall is not only the world’s leading manufacturer and technology leader in artillery ammunition but also possesses extensive know-how in planning, constructing, and operating large-caliber ammunition manufacturing facilities.
In October 2023, Rheinmetall and the Ukrainian state company Ukrainian Defence Industry JSC (UDI, formerly Ukroboronprom) had already established their first joint venture in Kyiv, focusing initially on the maintenance and repair of operational vehicles, with plans to manufacture armored vehicles in Ukraine in the future.
