High Demand Leads to Worker Shortage in Polish and Czech Arms Manufacturing

Arms manufacturers in the Czech Republic and Poland are facing a severe shortage of workers due to increased demand for military goods driven by the conflict in Ukraine, as reported by Reuters. The Central European arms industry is experiencing its biggest boom since the fall of the Berlin Wall, with companies rapidly expanding production to meet the rising demand from Ukraine and other countries increasing defense spending.

The Czech Ministry of Defense has noted a significant demand from Ukraine for large-caliber ammunition from the Soviet era, as well as Western-standard artillery systems and tank munitions. As a solution to the workforce shortage, the government is considering hiring Ukrainian refugees residing in the country to assist arms companies.

The Czech Association of Defense and Security Industry reveals that over 90% of arms and military goods from Central Europe are exported, with 40% of that going to Ukraine. The industry requires young workers with technical skills, but a shortage of experts is challenging due to an aging population and lack of available talent.

Companies are taking various measures to attract workers, such as providing housing for new employees and offering pensioners meals at canteens to share their knowledge in the production of ammunition. For instance, the Czech manufacturer of ammunition and artillery shells, STV Group, has partnered with a nearby town to build housing for new workers.

Additionally, Czech and Polish companies are exploring collaboration with universities and implementing automation processes to address workforce demands. The Polish company, WB Group, is increasing female employment on assembly lines for the production of drones and missile systems.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, employment in the Polish arms industry dropped by 76% between the mid-1980s and 2000.

State-owned Polish company PGZ, which oversees several firms producing weapons, ammunition, armored vehicles, and unmanned aviation systems, is seeking employees from various fields through social media advertising. With over 18,000 employees, the company plans to launch a campaign next year to persuade Polish workers employed in Scandinavian shipyards to return home for new contracts in building ships for the Polish Navy. The campaign aims to emphasize the opportunity to strengthen national defense and work closer to home.