Rheinmetall to Double Ukraine Shell Output to 300,000 a Year
Germany’s Rheinmetall will significantly expand its 155mm artillery shell production capacity in Ukraine, aiming to manufacture up to 300,000 rounds per year once its new plant comes online.
The Gaze writes about it, referring to the German Aid to Ukraine project report.
The new facility, currently under construction, was initially designed to produce 150,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition per year.
Speaking during the company’s Q2 2025 earnings call on August 7, CEO Armin Papperger confirmed the output target would be doubled after a one- to two-year ramp-up period.
The plant is seen as a strategic step for Ukraine, which has relied heavily on Western stockpiles since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Local production is expected to streamline logistics, cut delivery times, and ensure a steady supply of critical munitions to the front line.
Papperger voiced frustration over the slower pace of construction compared with a similar plant in Germany, completed despite starting around the same time.
However, Rheinmetall does not anticipate delays, with production still set to begin next year.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense welcomed the announcement, calling it a “vital boost” to the country’s long-term security and resilience.
As The Gaze reported earlier, Germany has already supplied Ukraine with more than 60 Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft guns and is preparing to deliver an additional IRIS-T air-defense system.