Strategic Czech-Ukraine Partnership for Artillery Ammunition Production

Agreements on the supply of components and licensed production of artillery ammunition were recently signed on the sidelines of the second International Defense Industry Forum (DFNC2) in Kyiv

These agreements involve collaboration between the Ukrainian private company Ukrainian Armor and the Czech consortium “Czechoslovak Group” (CSG).

According to the signed documents, one agreement provides for the supply of essential components for ammunition production, while the other focuses on licensing the production of artillery ammunition, including the transfer of technology and the necessary documentation for cartridge manufacturing. Sources from the defense industry indicate that the start of licensed production is planned for early next year, which could significantly impact Ukraine’s production capacity.

Vladyslav Belbas, CEO of Ukrainian Armor, emphasized the company’s ambitions, stating that in 2024, they intend to produce and deliver approximately 100,000 shells. Additionally, it is estimated that by 2026, production could exceed 300,000 shells. Production will take place both in Ukraine and in the Czech Republic, aiming to optimize costs and increase efficiency.

It is noteworthy that the 155 mm artillery shells will be manufactured according to NATO standards, with variants that will have ranges of 37 and 43 kilometers. Furthermore, additional tank ammunition production is planned, adapted to NATO standards.

Andrej Cirtek, spokesperson for CSG, confirmed that since March, CSG has been negotiating with Ukrainian state companies and organizations to transfer part of the production in the form of joint ventures. The production of ammunition and heavy land equipment will occur in Ukraine, contributing to strengthening the country’s defense industry.

Moreover, Michal Strnad, CEO of CSG, stated that the agreement with the Ukrainian side could be similar to those concluded by CSG with other international companies, thus strengthening Ukraine’s arms production capabilities. Since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February 2022, CSG has delivered approximately 150-160 pieces of equipment to Ukraine, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the Ukrainian armed forces.

The European Commission predicts that annual ammunition production within the European Union will reach 1.4 million projectiles by the end of 2024, increasing from approximately 500,000 a year ago, underscoring the importance and urgency of these cooperative initiatives.