Ballistics Forum

12 Feb 26. UK seeking containerised armouries for overseas bases.

The UK Ministry of Defence is seeking containerised armouries, ammunition storage facilities, and workshops.

• The containerised units will be situated within existing UK military locations located overseas
• The UK operates a string of overseas bases across Europe, the South Atlantic, the Middle East, and into the Indo-Pacific
• Such armoured units would be useful for locations that may not have established infrastructure

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is seeking the provision of armoured containers for use at overseas sites operated by the British military, to be operated as armouries, ammunition stores, and workshops. Contracted via Unite Procurement UK and published on the UK Government tender site in late-January, the UK MoD listed a requirement for a 20ft containerised armoury, a 10ft containerised ammunition store, and a 10ft containerised workshop. According to the contract tender the deadline for submissions is 13 February, with the deal valued at between £250,000 to £500,000 ($340,000 to $680,000). Delivery of the containerised weapons depot units is due for completion by February 2028. All containers should be JSP 440, AASTP-1 (Edition C), DSA OME Part 2 and NSPA compliant as appropriate, the tender stated. The containerised units will be stationed to UK personnel overseas and installed in a static capacity within existing UK-managed infrastructure in replacement of older system that are no longer considered suitable. Such armoured containers are used by militaries around the world, offering secure storage in remote or unprepared locations. The addition of armour plates and polymer coatings provide a degree of physical resistance to kinetic threats, with other measures such as security doors and in-built security systems also commonly fitted.

Where are the UK’s overseas bases?

The UK operates a range of overseas bases and military/mixed use sites, from the Norwegian Arctic in the High North to the RAF base at Mount Pleasant on the Falkland Islands. Military sites in warmer climes include the Sovereign Base Areas of Dhekelia and Akrotiri on Cyprus, Gibraltar naval base, the Duqm training area in Oman, and British Defence Singapore Support Unit. The UK also maintains a naval support facility at Mina Salman in Bahrain, although a recent draw down of naval vessels in the region leaves its fate in the balance. It is unknown where the containerised units will be deployed. (Source: army-technology.com)

 

10 Feb 26. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane) has designed and developed the Drone Killer Cartridge (DKC), a new and cost-effective family of ammunition for the warfighter that increases probability of hit and kill against drone threats while inherently reducing collateral damage. Col. Andrew Konicki, Program Manager of Ground Based Air Defense, Program Executive Officer Land Systems, said the Marine Corps plans to broadly leverage DKC for its enhanced capabilities and implement at the operator-level. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane) has designed and developed the Drone Killer Cartridge (DKC), a new and cost-effective family of ammunition for the warfighter that increases probability of hit and kill against drone threats while inherently reducing collateral damage.

“The Drone Killer Cartridge represents a pivotal shift in countering the pervasive threat of enemy drones,” said Col. Konicki. “This type of ammunition provides an immediate and significant improvement to our kinetic kill capabilities by using standard-issued weapons that are already in the hands of Marines.”

DKC allows a Marine to take down unmanned aerial system (UAS) threats as they arise.

“The collaborative work between NSWC Crane and the Marine Corps has positive impacts across the ecosystem of Homeland Defense as well as self-protection for our forward deployed troops in harm’s way,” said Col. Konicki. “With DKC, we are adding capability well beyond conventional options, while also bending the cost curve for neutralizing drone threats, particularly to the individual Marine. Crucially, its design reduces the risk of collateral damage, making it a dominant and urgently needed solution that will fundamentally change the fight for every Marine.”

Unmanned systems are reshaping tactics and challenging established operations creating life-threatening scenarios for warfighters globally. To counter this rapidly evolving and critical threat, the Department is aiming to improve overall defense capabilities.

Brian Hoffman, Man-Portable Weapons Chief Engineer at NSWC Crane and primary inventor for DKC, said the technology offers immense capability to the warfighter.

“We’re enabling extended range, shotgun-style effects through automatic rifles and machine guns with nothing more than an ammunition change,” said Hoffman. “By design, DKC provides broader terminal coverage on and around the intended target, which increases effectiveness against stationary and moving drones by helping offset imperfect aim. There’s a good reason why bird hunters use shotguns. We’ve applied a similar philosophy to killing drones while amplifying overall performance. DKC sub-projectiles exit the barrel at velocities typical of centerfire rifle ammunition. Those velocities, and associated energies, far exceed shotgun capabilities and serve to extend effective range while offering more devastating effects on target.”

Hoffman said the DKC results are “unmistakable,” as the clustered shotgun-style effects help overcome point-of-aim error that is common to users with limited or no experience in engaging UAS. DKC is also helpful for warfighters attempting to engage drone targets of unknown distance and speed: for both inexperienced and experienced operators alike.

“During a recent demonstration at Camp Atterbury in Edinburgh, Indiana, shooters using DKC achieved a 92% kill rate against drone targets,” said Hoffman. “At a prior demonstration at Camp Grafton in Devils Lake, North Dakota, the team invited several first-time shooters of DKC to the firing line. On their first-ever attempts, they successfully killed drones using DKC with standard-issue weapons and basic optics only. That was extremely compelling for both the shooters and observers and reinforced the need to accelerate timeline to initial fielding.”

DKC technology provides improved defense capability at an affordable price in terms of low unit cost and cost-per-kill. As a result, DKC is positioned for broad use through rapid and seamless integration, allowing for end-user operational versatility in a variety of mission scenarios, including last line of defense.

All DKC products are NSWC Crane-designed and U.S. Government-owned intellectual property (IP) with U.S. nonprovisional utility patent applications and Patent Cooperative Treaty applications on file. The DKC family includes both Pelletized and Segmented product options. There is functional overlap between the two, but each type maintains unique priority rankings when it comes to effective range, target area coverage, suppressor compatibility, and cost. Segmented DKC includes a one-piece projectile that mechanically self-separates into discrete, spin-stabilized sub-projectiles prior to muzzle exit. Pelletized DKC includes a projectile assembly containing a stack of high-density, spherical buckshot-sized pellets that are mechanically disbursed at muzzle exit. The projectiles of both DKC types are inert and easily produced. The other components needed for cartridge assembly are identical to those used in current production of other Department of War fielded ammunition types.  To view some footage of drone kills using DKC, high-speed video of the sub-projectiles as they exit the barrel, and additional introductory content, please visit the DKC product video. The Drone Killer Cartridge technology is available for licensing to commercial ammunition and defense manufacturing partners. Initially designed for military applications, there also are applications for home defense, personal protection, and hunting. To learn more about the IP and licensing opportunity, please visit TechLink. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

10 Feb 26. Poland’s Niewiadow signs framework deal with Northrop Grumman on 155 mm ammo production. Polish arms group Niewiadow-PGM said on Tuesday it had signed a framework deal with U.S. defence supplier Northrop Grumman on producing artillery ammunition in Poland. The deal, also signed by Niewiadow units Elaboracja Niewiadow and Zaklady Sprzetu Precyzyjnego Niewiadow, sets out rules for cooperation on preparation, production, certification and introduction to market of 155-millimetre artillery ammunition, in particular for the European market, Niewiadow said. The financial terms and production details were not disclosed. The 155 mm shell is widely used by Ukraine in its war with Russia, but has been in short supply.

“The first area of ​​cooperation is the joint production of a 155 mm artillery shell, which is currently at an advanced stage of preparation for the certification process,” Niewiadow said in a press release.

“(The deal) creates a basis for both the development of production in Poland and joint market initiatives in the area of ​​offering ready-made solutions,” Adam Januszko, Niewiadow’s chief executive was quoted as saying in the statement. (Source: Reuters)

16 Dec 25. Ukraine ramp up ‘Horoshok’ anti-drone ammunition. The military plan to induct 400,000 rounds per month to bring down enemy FPVs or Mavic-class drones. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) of Ukraine has committed to producing up to 400,000 rounds of ammunition to bring down uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). The current rate of production of these anti-drone rounds is not known but the small arms ammunition, named ‘Horoshok’ rounds – which come in two calibres: 5.56×45 mm and 5.45×39 mm – can be fired from standard service rifles. Such rounds, the MoD stated, can engage enemy drones at distances of up to 50 and 60 metres, respectively. The “specialised projectile” enhances the probability of a successful hit, and crucially, the rounds can be loaded into the standard magazine, enabling immediate engagement of enemy drones.

Meeting the UAV threat with rifles

Due to the modernisation of the Ukrainian military, however, there are numerous rifle types, although generally the government aim to transition from legacy weapons such as the AK-74 toward Nato standard weapons like the AR-15 and Czech Bren 2. Even this transition is made more complicated by the fact that in 2024, the Ministry of Defence codified and adopted approximately 30 new models of small arms. Still, it is believed that Western-made assault rifles – using 5.56x45mm Nato rounds – deliver higher bullet energy than the Soviet 5.45x39mm small arms ammunition. The persistent threat of UAVs in a land-based, attritional war has seen both sides leverage whatever anti-drone methods they have immediately available. While some Russian mobile units are known to drive motorcycles to evade Ukrainian drones, the Ukrainian Army, likewise, must lean on standard issue rifles to protect against the whirring threat. The global missile defence industry, within which GlobalData intelligence places Europe as the leading geographic segment, is beginning to confront the UAV peril. An Estonian missile maker, Frankenburg, for example, is developing a relatively low cost ($50,000 per unit compared to a $500m Stinger missile) short range missile interceptor humbly named ‘Mark I’.

Russian UAVs

The Ukrainian MoD states that the boost in anti-drone Horoshok ammunition is intended to meet the threat of two types of Russian-operated drones, First-Person View (FPV) and Mavic-class systems. FPV systems are said to be the most common drone in the war. It is a system comprising a quadcopter drone, a remote control station and an operator with special goggles. These small, remotely controlled UAVs are always evolving, with the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noting on 9 October that Russian developers introduced fibre-optic FPV UAVs that make these systems resistant to jamming. According to the Washington open source intelligence platform, these new systems can function as “repeater drones” relaying data to mission drones, strike or reconnaissance UAVs, extending Russian tactical drone ranges from around 15 to 60 kilometres. Likewise, Mavic-class drones are dual-use, foldable quadcopter UAVs produced by the Chinese company, DJI. The ISW also reported their use to target Ukrainian infantry on the ground. These combined UAV tactics, which also leverage electronic warfare systems for jamming, demonstrate the mass effect and layered assault methods of the Russian military. (Source: army-technology.com)

 

15 Dec 25. As US ramps up munitions production, South Korea and Australia want in. South Korea and Australia are offering to relieve Washington’s strained defense supplier network, as U.S. defense planners grapple with bottlenecks in munitions production. One partial solution is for overseas-based arms manufacturers to set up shop in the United States – something that Hanwha Aerospace from South Korea is proposing – and another is for American companies to build manufacturing facilities offshore. An example of the latter tactic is a new Lockheed Martin factory that recently opened in South Australia.

Korean capacity

Hanwha Aerospace plans to establish an automated plant in the United States for producing propellant, modular charge systems and so-called base-bleed units for artillery systems. The addition of base-bleed technology extends an artillery round’s range by reducing the drag of the projectile’s base during flight.

“Our goal is to bring this vertically integrated, fully automated production capability to the United States,” Juliana Kim, project lead for Hanwha’s precision guided munition division, told a group of journalists during a company-sponsored factory tour in South Korea last month.

Hanwha is set to announce a site for the company-owned, company-operated propellant plant soon. Ground-breaking should occur in Q3 of 2026, with construction set to take three years. The plant will manufacture nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, nitroguanidine, triple-base propellant, and feature a load-assemble-pack line for modular artillery charge systems. Capable of producing approximately 1.5 m modules for 155mm artillery modular charge systems per year, Hanwha executives said they are ready to invest $1 bn in the facility. Once fully operational, the plant could generate $500 m in revenue annually, according to the company.

A base-bleed unit line would require additional investment of $240 m, according to Hanwha calculations.

“By 2030, our goal is to produce fully U.S.-localized modular charges using U.S.-made raw materials from our plant,” Kim explained. Future options include solid rocket motor production in the U.S. too.

Hanwha Aerospace produces more than 90% of South Korea’s warhead and propulsion systems. The company is in the process of building a factory for modular charges at its Boeun site in South Korea. That factory is slated to take just two years to construct.

Lee Woo Jin, head of the company’s Yeosu Plant, explained this factory will have an annual capacity of about 250,000 complete modular charge systems.

“This new facility will begin operations in early to mid-2027, effectively doubling Hanwha’s export-ready modular charge system capacity,” he said.

Australian alternate

The U.S. can also assure production resilience by setting up facilities overseas. This is what Lockheed Martin has done, as it leverages the Australian government’s desire for greater self-sufficiency. Under Australia’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise, Lockheed Martin Australia opened a new government-owned factory in Port Wakefield, around 60 miles from Adelaide, on Dec. 5. The first product to emerge from the facility is Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets and launch pod containers. In fact, this is the first time GMLRS has been assembled outside the U.S.

“Starting missile production in Australia this year is a major step in building the industrial strength our nation needs,” Defence Minister Richard Marles said. “It’s about creating advanced manufacturing capability that will serve Australia for decades to come.”

Initially, the facility is only assembling GMLRS kit components, with fuller production integrating selected domestic components to occur from 2029. A bilateral government agreement inked in March 2024 forged a pathway for production of up to 4,000 GMLRS rockets annually.

This is more than ten times what Australia needs for itself, so exports have always been part of Lockheed Martin’s thinking.

“So we’re not just looking at Australian consumption; we’re looking at the global supply chain,” James Heading, director and general manager of missiles and fire control at Lockheed Martin Australia, said.

The company already has eyes on producing additional, longer-range weapons in Australia, including the GMLRS-ER and the Precision Strike Missile and perhaps hypersonic technology later on, Heading said. As for pricing, the executive said that within three to five years “we should be achieving price parity, if not better, in the Australian market,” compared to U.S. production. (Source: Defense News)

19 Nov 25. Strategic Defence Review – Energetics Information Notice

Ministry of Defence

Published date: 19 November 2025

Last edited date: 19 November 2025

This notice was replaced on 19 November 2025

This notice does not contain the most up-to-date information about this procurement. The most recent notice is:

Early engagement (published 19 November 2025, last edited 9 December 2025)

Open early engagement – This means that a procurement idea is currently active, it is in the early stage of development and judging interest from potential suppliers.

Contract summary

Industry

• Military research and technology – 73410000

Location of contract

BS34 8JH

Procurement reference tender_512494/1533156

Published date: 19 November 2025

Closing date: 15 December 2025

Contract is suitable for SMEs?: Yes

Contract is suitable for VCSEs? No

Description

UK government is acting on the Strategic Defence Review’s recommendations by investing in an ‘always on’ pipeline for munitions including building at least six new energetics and munitions factories in the UK.

The User requires the manufacture of the following Energetic Materials:

• RDX (Bachman or Woolwich)
• HMX
• Trinitrotoluene (TNT)
• Nitrocellulose (NC)
• Nitroglycerine (NG)
• Nitroguanidine (NQ)
• Hexanitrostilbene (HNS)
• Ammonium Perchlorate (AP)
• Boron Potassium Nitrate (BKNO3)

Other materials in the following classes: High explosives, Propellants, Ignitors, Detonators, Pyrotechnics, may be considered on an exceptional basis. Proposals will be sought which demonstrate economic and technical viability with capital available for investment.

Additionally, the Authority welcomes expressions of interest from consumers who wish to establish a supply of these materials for current facilities (domestic or exports) or aim to establish a capability in the UK which will rely on them.

Overview:

The Strategic Defence Review sets out the ambition of moving to warfighting readiness through a whole-of-society approach ensuring an engine for growth through a new partnership with industry, radical procurement reforms, and backing businesses to establish and grow in the UK.

The MoD aims to achieve this through a coherent set of significant multi-year investments in onshore energetic materials synthesis through UK-based or overseas-based suppliers. These investments will typically form part, but not all, of the funding required for the establishment of a facility.

During the formal tender documentation process, suppliers should consider how they will generate UK growth. Companies with established order books/markets will be prioritised. Proposals must demonstrate that they are economically and technically viable to progress.

Consideration should also be given to:

1. The scale of the proposed facility and the market demand required to support it:

1.1 Proposals should assume a range of scenarios such as surge demand and reduced or minimal UK MoD demand.

1.2 Other offtakes, such as exports and civilian markets, should be considered and are expected to form the majority of the demand signal. UK government, via the MoD’s Defence Exports team, will actively support export campaigns.

2 Economic viability including fluctuating demand and market prices.

2.1 Proposals should be economically viable as further support funding for facilities is not envisioned.

3 The level of investment required (VROM) and how this will be raised:

3.1 Including internal company investment and external venture capital

3.2 It is expected that MoD funding will not form the majority of funding for proposals.

4 Wider requirements to establish a facility including:

4.1 Regulatory

4.2 Skills

4.3 Export support (including UKEF)

4.4 Technology

4.5 Sites

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

 

08 Dec 25. US Navy wants new railroad car to transport unarmed ballistic missiles. The U.S. Navy wants a special railroad car to transport unarmed ballistic missiles, according to a recent request for information. The problem is that existing railcars are almost 50 years old, and will soon be retired. But the Navy still has a need to transport Active Inert Missiles, which are dummy rockets used to practice tasks such as loading missile tubes. Currently, the Navy uses the DODX 40000, a 150-ton flatbed designed by the U.S. Army in 1981 to carry cargo such as tanks, and which is slated to be demilitarized in 2031.

“The Fleet Ballistic Missile (FBM) program initially procured these flatcars for the transportation of Active Inert Missiles (AIMs) between facilities,” according to the Navy RFI published Nov. 24. “However, the current 3-axle, 6-wheel truck design is now obsolete, and the American Association of Railroads (AAR) will not grant an extension of their service life.”

While the RFI did not provide specific requirements for the next-generation railcar, the DODX 40000 is 68 feet long, and has a maximum loading capacity of 140 tons. It is designed to carry two M1 Abrams tanks, and can haul cranes, shipping containers and other large items. In recent years, the Navy has sought other rail improvements. Navy Munitions Command Atlantic plans to replace its 200-strong fleet of boxcars and flatcars that haul munitions.

“Critical brake system components are no longer manufactured, requiring cannibalization of parts from decommissioned railcars to keep the fleet operational,” noted Military News. “Several railcars have recently been retired due to structural frame cracks and issues caused by accelerated wear, gradually reducing the fleet size.”

Meanwhile, the Navy and the Department of Energy have collaborated to design armored railcars to transport spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste. The Atlas system includes a 12-axle railcar to carry nuclear material. Riding shotgun is the Rail Escort Vehicle, which will carry security guards, cameras and communications equipment. The impending retirement of the DODX 40000 is just one more strain on the military rail system, which remains the most efficient and economical mode of transports for tasks such as moving heavy equipment from bases to training ranges or to ports for overseas assignments. A 2021 GAO report on Army rail found numerous problems that are hampering the network.

“Although the Army moves the majority of what it needs for a large-scale combat operation over its rail network in CONUS [continental U.S.], much of that track is in ‘red’ or poor condition,” Diana Moldafsky, an acting director of GAO’s Defense Capabilities and Management Team, told Defense News. “Additionally, DOD hadn’t figured out how many rail operating crews it needed to support this type of movement and lacked elements of a quality assurance and quality control program for conducting its inspections.”

“We didn’t focus on the flatcars specifically, but the issue of using aging flatcars was brought up as a challenge as well,” Moldafsky added.

While the 2021 study only looked at Army rail, the Navy will face the same obstacles.

“Due to the condition of the rail track, any designing of special rail cars to transport items such as dummy ballistic missiles would require a number of considerations to ensure the safe movement of those type of loads,” Moldafsky said. (Source: Defense News)

 

09 Dec 25. Next-Gen 40mm Airburst Ammo to Arm MK19 Grenade Launcher for Tactical Counter-Drone Defence. The U.S. Army is moving to equip its MK19 40 mm automatic grenade launchers with programmable airburst counter-drone ammunition under a new Cornerstone Other Transaction initiative posted on SAM.gov. The effort would push dedicated, low-cost air defense against small unmanned aircraft down to squad and platoon level, tightening protection for vehicles, outposts, and maneuver units. The U.S. Department of War signaled a new phase in its fight against small unmanned aerial systems by preparing a 40 mm Counter Unmanned Aerial System (CUAS) capability for the MK19 automatic grenade launcher, as published on SAM.gov. Through a Special Notice issued under the Cornerstone Other Transaction Agreement, the Army outlines plans for programmable air-burst munitions designed specifically to defeat drones. The step reflects lessons from recent conflicts where commercial and military UAVs have become routine tools for surveillance and precision attack against ground forces and fixed sites. At the same time, allied nations report a steady rise in suspicious drone sightings over military and critical infrastructure in regions such as Europe, confirming that low-cost UAS are now a persistent security concern. For the U.S. Army, giving ground troops a dedicated CUAS ammunition family for a widely deployed weapon marks an attempt to push air defense capabilities down to the tactical edge. The Special Notice describes how the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command – Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC), acting on behalf of the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, intends to launch a competitive Cornerstone Initiative Request for a 40 mm CUAS solution. The objective is to integrate advanced proximity-sensing fuze technology into programmable 40×53 mm air-burst cartridges for the MK19, turning a long-serving grenade machine gun into a specialized counter-drone effector. This effort is framed as a complete system: not only a new cartridge, but also the required detection, tracking, targeting and defeat functions, with seamless integration into existing weapon platforms, fire-control systems and remote weapon stations. By insisting on compatibility with current MK19 mounts and remote stations, the Army aims to minimize the need for new hardware while enabling vehicles, perimeter towers and dismounted units already equipped with the weapon to adopt the CUAS role through an ammunition and software upgrade. The MK19 offers a robust platform for this evolution. Introduced during the Vietnam War and fielded widely in the late 1960s and 1970s, the belt‑fed 40 mm automatic grenade launcher is a standard support weapon across U.S. services and numerous allied forces. Its 40×53 mm high‑velocity cartridges, sustained rate of fire, and effective engagement ranges, approximately 1.5 km against point targets and beyond 2 km against area targets, have established it as a reliable choice for convoy protection, base defense, and direct fire support.

Recent industry trials with time‑programmed and air‑burst munitions have demonstrated that the launcher’s basic mechanism can accommodate more sophisticated fuze functions. The CUAS initiative advances this capability by specifying proximity‑sensing fuzes that detect an unmanned aerial system and detonate at an optimal distance, markedly improving the probability of defeat against small, agile targets without requiring a direct hit. This concept follows the precedent of adapting legacy munitions, such as guidance and fuze kits for Hydra 70 rockets, to create tailored counter‑drone effects. From an operational standpoint, 40 mm counter-unmanned aerial system (CUAS) ammunition occupies a distinct role within layered air defense architectures. High-end gun systems such as 30 mm and 35 mm turrets with programmable rounds and missile-based solutions deliver superior range and hit probability, yet they remain costly, limited in availability, and typically confined to larger platforms. In contrast, the MK19 launcher is already integrated across a broad spectrum of light and armored vehicles, as well as employed on tripods for dismounted missions and on naval mounts. Outfitting these existing systems with programmable proximity-fuzed ammunition and the corresponding fire-control enhancements would provide platoons, company-level units, and base defense teams with an organic, high-capacity hard-kill capability against low, slow, and small drones within short-range engagements.

The comparatively low cost of 40 mm ammunition relative to missile systems further positions it as an efficient option for countering frequent, low-value aerial threats such as commercial quadcopters used for reconnaissance or ordnance delivery. The primary constraint remains projectile velocity and flight trajectory; grenade rounds travel more slowly than cannon shells, limiting their effectiveness against fast or highly maneuverable targets and underscoring the need for precise sensor cueing and advanced fire control. Routing this development effort through the Cornerstone Other Transaction Authority (OTA) reflects strategic intent beyond the immediate tactical advantage. The Cornerstone initiative was established to enhance the U.S. defense industrial base by fostering enduring partnerships between the government and a consortium of industry participants, and this CUAS program aligns directly with that objective.

Leveraging this framework enables the Department of Defense not only to prototype a critical capability but also to cultivate an industrial ecosystem capable of sustaining the production of advanced 40 mm munitions and their supporting electronic components. The increased prevalence of drones in conflicts ranging from the Middle East to Eastern Europe, along with their growing appearance over domestic military sites, suggests that demand for anti-drone munitions will continue to rise. Tying the development of a new 40 mm CUAS round to the widely fielded MK19 therefore achieves dual goals: it delivers a practical counter-drone solution to front-line forces and embeds a new class of programmable munitions within a structured, resilient industrial base. By turning a legacy grenade launcher into a dedicated counter-drone platform, the U.S. Army is responding to a clear operational trend: ground forces can no longer rely solely on high-end air defense units to deal with small unmanned aircraft. If the forthcoming Cornerstone Initiative Request leads to a successful prototype and follow-on production, MK19 crews could gain the ability to engage drones with tailored 40 mm air-burst rounds from positions and vehicles they already occupy. At a time when small UAS are proliferating over front lines, supply convoys and even training areas, the move to field 40 mm CUAS ammunition signals a broader shift toward making every echelon of ground troops part of an integrated counter-drone architecture, rather than leaving the mission to specialized systems alone. (Source: UAS VISION/Army Recognition)

 

05 Dec 25. Czech group CSG signs Slovak deal for EU ammunition supply worth up to 58bn euros.

• Summary
• CSG unit ZVS Holding signs 7-year ammunition deal with Slovakia
• Slovakia offers EU states to join framework agreement under SAFE
• CSG growing player in defence sector

Czech defence group CSG has signed a framework deal with Slovakia’s defence ministry to supply ammunition to EU states worth up to 58bn euros ($67.54bn). CSG said its Slovak subsidiary ZVS Holding, which is jointly owned with Slovakia, concluded the seven-year deal, with purchases potentially financed under the European Union’s SAFE programme, which offers long-term loans to strengthen defence capabilities. Slovakia, like other European countries, is seeking to build its defence industry as the EU and NATO boost spending in response to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. CSG, owned by 33-year-old billionaire Michal Strnad, has grown into a major player and is among Europe’s largest makers of artillery ammunition for NATO countries and Ukraine. The company has recently considered an initial public offering to fund further expansion.

OFFER TO EU STATES TO JOIN

The value of the deal reflects the maximum potential volume of deliveries and based on available production capacity, CSG said. ZVS Holding will supply 155 mm artillery ammunition, 120 mm tank ammunition, and 30 mm and 35 mm cannon ammunition for Slovakia and other EU member states, it said in a statement with the Slovak ministry. Slovakia is offering EU member states the opportunity to join the framework agreement. Under SAFE, Slovakia aims to draw 2.3bn euros, of which 38.5m euros is for the purchase of large- and medium-caliber ammunition. “Slovakia has the ambition to become a leader in the supply of large- and medium-caliber ammunition for EU member states,” Defence Minister Robert Kalinak said.

CSG ON UPSWING

CSG has grown in the past year following a $2.2 bn acquisition of U.S.-based small-calibre ammunition maker Kinetic Group last year. In the first three quarters this year, CSG reported revenue of 4.49bn euros ($5.2bn) while operating profit (EBIT) rose by 77% to 1.10bn euros. It has an order backlog of 14bn euros. European defence-related stocks have been among the best-performing this year, with a STOXX index of aerospace and defence companies (.SXPARO), up around 50%. While prospects of peace in Ukraine have brought some stock volatility, analysts see the sector supported by rising defence spending despite any potential deal ending the war. ($1 = 0.8587 euros) (Source: Reuters)

 

05 Dec 25. NGC to Produce High Explosive Proximity for the US Army. The U.S. Army has awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) a contract valued over $200 m to produce the XM1211 High Explosive Proximity (HEP) fuzed round of medium caliber ammunition. This award is a significant milestone in delivering next-generation munitions for short range air defense against small Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

• The XM1211 is a 30x113mm round integrated with a proximity sensor that only needs to get close enough to detect a target, at which point it detonates, sending fragmentation for defeat.
• Designed and produced in conjunction with the U.S. Army Joint Program Executive Office for Armaments & Ammunition, Project Manager Maneuver Ammunition Systems (PM MAS) and U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM), the XM1211 is ideal for use against small UAS and is designated for use with Northrop Grumman’s XM914, and M230LF Bushmaster® Chain Guns®.
• Northrop Grumman and PM MAS rapidly developed the round to meet an urgent materiel release in 2021 and are now accelerating ramp-up and capacity expansion to meet increased domestic and international demand.
• Production will occur at Northrop Grumman’s facilities in Plymouth and Elk River, Minnesota; Allegany Ballistics Laboratory, West Virginia; and Radford Ammunition Plant, Virgina.

Dave Fine, vice president, armament systems, Northrop Grumman: “As the only qualified producer of the XM1211 proximity round, Northrop Grumman is uniquely positioned to deliver this urgent need for advanced munitions with speed. Our partnership with the U.S. Army drives innovation and ensures that we meet the critical needs of soldiers on the battlefield today.”

For nearly 40 years, Northrop Grumman’s innovations in ammunition have led to cutting-edge defenses. Today, the company is adapting to emerging threats by developing new types of medium caliber “advanced” ammunition including airburst, proximity, and guided munitions to provide greater precision and the ability to counter unmanned threats and to defeat advanced armor. (Source: ASD Network)

25 Nov 25. USA Tests 5.56 mm Anti-Drone Round: Small Arms Become ‘Precision Air Defence.’ The United States has tested a specialized 5.56×45 mm anti-drone ammunition designed to intercept FPVs and small quadcopters at close range. The round allows a conventional assault rifle to serve as a “point air defence” for infantry. The bullet’s design features a shifted center of mass and a modified jacket, causing it to lose gyroscopic stabilization after 10-15 meters of flight. This forms a wide cone of destruction that compensates for the drone’s small silhouette and low speed. The ammunition is fully compatible with AR-15, SIG MCX, SCAR-L, and other 5.56mm systems, and does not require any adapters, muzzle devices, or special optics. The shooter simply changes the magazine and receives a means of fighting UAVs. During the tests, the shooter fired at moving drone simulators at distances of 15-50 meters. High-speed cameras recorded the characteristic “swinging” of the bullet and the stable formation of a debris cloud at medium distances. At a distance of 25-35 meters, the bullet forms a cone of destruction with a diameter of 30-40 cm. At 40-50 meters, the zone reaches 60-80 cm, which significantly increases the chances of intercepting FPVs even without an accurately aimed shot. Partial contact with a debris cloud is enough to destroy an FPV: the propeller, camera, antenna, or battery fails, and the drone goes into uncontrolled flight and falls within a split second. Compared to standard FMJ bullets, the new ammunition increases the probability of shooting down drones: instead of needing to hit a 15-centimeter target, the shooter gets an interception zone up to half a meter wide. In terms of effectiveness at short range, the cartridge is close to 12-gauge shotgun solutions, but retains the advantages of 5.56 mm – high rate of fire, control, and low recoil. At the same time, the cost of such solutions is orders of magnitude lower than any counter-UAV systems. Tests have confirmed that the American 5.56 mm anti-drone cartridge is one of the simplest and cheapest FPV short-range interceptors that can be loaded into a standard magazine of the appropriate caliber without additional equipment or special training. (Source: UAS VISION/MILITARNYI)

 

26 Nov 25. RDM successfully integrates Assegai ammunition with G5 and G6 howitzers. Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) has successfully integrated its latest generation 155 mm Assegai artillery ammunition with the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF’s) G5 and G6 45 calibre howitzers following verification firings at the Alkantpan test range. The company said Fire Control Interface (FCI) verification firings of the Assegai ammunition suite were carried out between 3 and 6 November. The verification firings were conducted in close collaboration with the SA Army, the Logistics Support Formation, Denel Landward Systems, Armscor, and RDM. The achievement “marks not only a successful integration effort but a significant step forward in upgrading and future-proofing the SANDF’s long-range firepower, ensuring the artillery corps remains aligned with modern operational requirements,” according to RDM.

Multiple Assegai variants were validated during the trials, including:

• M1712 – JBMoU 155 mm IHE with boat-tail (BT)
• M1711 – JBMoU IHE with base-bleed (BB)
• M2000 – JBMoU standard high-explosive (HE)
• M1 – ERFB nubbed variant, currently in service

Using the M64 and M67 propelling charges in service with Denel’s 45 calibre howitzers, the trials demonstrated full operational compatibility across the ammunition-to-weapon interface — confirming both the adaptability and technical maturity of the Assegai family, RDM said. The Assegai range delivers a substantial performance upgrade over the legacy M1 ERFB shells, offering a lethal area of 152 m² and generating up to 11 300 natural fragments. The newly integrated M1711 and M1712 also bring enhanced logistical and launcher-safety benefits to own forces due to their insensitive munition characteristics — a key requirement in modernising artillery ammunition systems, RDM emphasised.

“This success demonstrates RDM’s technical excellence and steadfast commitment to supporting the SANDF’s transition to modernised, enhanced prime-mission equipment,” said Dr Frank Dirksen, Chief Executive Officer at RDM. “These firings confirm that South Africa can field world-class artillery ammunition that integrates seamlessly with existing 45 calibre systems, while opening clear pathways for future capability growth.”

RDM said it remains focused on delivering practical, deployable solutions that extend range, improve lethality and precision, and enhance reliability for the South African National Defence Force. “The Alkantpan verification is not the conclusion — it is the launch point for further range-table validation, operational trials and continued cooperation with our defence partners to ensure the SANDF is equipped for today’s operational demands and tomorrow’s emerging threats.” The G5 towed howitzer and G6 self-propelled howitzer use 45 calibre barrels, able to fire Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) projectiles in two main versions: standard boat-tail (ERFB-BT) and base bleed (ERFB-BB). Maximum range from a 45 calibre barrelled howitzer is 31 and 41 km respectively for the boat-tail and base bleed projectiles. The Assegai projectile suite consists of ballistically matched High Explosive, Practice, Insensitive Munition High Explosive, Illuminating, Infrared Illuminating, Smoke, Pre-formed Fragmented (PFF) and Rocket-Assisted (V-LAP) projectiles. Rounds are compatible with 39 to 52 calibre weapon systems and designed according to JBMoU principles; the Assegai family can be fired from any NATO STANAG-compatible artillery system, including the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer. With a barrel length of 39 calibres, an Assegai base bleed projectile attains a range of over 30 kilometres. Fired from a 52-calibre barrel, the range can exceed 40 kilometres (a 2019 record shot reached 76 km with a V-LAP round). The tactical modular charges of the Assegai series are fine-tuned to the customer’s specific weapon systems and artillery shells for maximum effectiveness, RDM said. Their modular design simplifies logistics and makes handling in self-propelled artillery systems easier. They also offer other advantages: Assegai charges reduce barrel wear and produce lower muzzle flash; the former results in longer barrel life, the latter makes the artillery system harder for the enemy to detect. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

 

25 Nov 25. US Army wants to manufacture 30,000 155mm cluster shells per year. The U.S. Army is looking for companies that can manufacture the new XM1208 155mm cluster shell — and a number of them. The goal, according to a market survey published Nov. 20, is to find contractors who can manufacture up to 30,000 XM1208 rounds per year. The U.S. is currently producing 40,000 artillery shells per month, as America and Europe struggle to ramp up production of howitzer munitions in response to the war in Ukraine. The Nov. 20 market survey, meanwhile, noted that the XM1208 can be produced by multiple manufacturers.

“Sources shall include their minimum sustaining and maximum capacity rates,” the Army said.

The XM1208, which carries nine M99 Advanced Submunitions, is designed to be fired from both the M109A6/7 Paladin and M777A2 howitzers. It can be fired out to a maximum range of approximately 14 miles, according to a 2025 Joint Program Executive Office Armaments and Ammunition brochure.

“The ASMs are expelled at a predetermined time in flight using M762/A1 [electronic time] fuze,” the brochure stated. “They are armed while falling, oriented via a ribbon stabilizer, and deliver around 1,200 preformed tungsten fragments approximately 1.5 meters above the target area.”

If the proximity fuze on a submunition fails, there are four back-ups: point detonation upon impact, pyrotechnic and two electronic fuses. Detonation — or the lack of it — is the impetus behind next-generation cluster shells like the XM1208. The Army is trying to reconcile two design goals: artillery shells that can launch multiple submunitions, but do so without violating international treaties that ban cluster weapons. Cluster weapons, which date back to Nazi Luftwaffe bombs in World War II, target the laws of probability. Using a single bomb to dispense a large number of small bomblets increases the chances of a hit, especially for area fire where targets can’t be precisely located. Facing potential attack by massed Soviet forces, the Army’s solution starting in the 1970s was the Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munition, or DPICM. These contained numerous grenade-sized anti-tank and anti-personnel submunitions, ranging from 72 bomblets in the M864 155mm howitzer shell, to 644 submunitions in the M26 rocket fired by the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System. The problem with those munitions was that the bomblets had a dud rate that ranged between 2% and 14%. (For Russian cluster weapons, that figure is 40%.) That meant battlefields could become littered with small unexploded bombs that can kill civilians long after the fighting has ended. In 2008, the Department of Defense mandated that cluster munitions must have a dud rate no greater than 1%, though that policy was reversed in 2017. The Army now plans to replace DPICM with the Cannon-Delivered Area Effects Munition, or C-DAEM. The program includes the XM1180 shell to dispense anti-armor bomblets, and the XM1208 to release submunitions against personnel and light vehicles. Objectives “include delivering enhanced lethality against a broad range of uncertain targets, extending the range and effectiveness against counter-artillery fire, and providing a reliable solution that can operate in GPS-contested environments while mitigating the risk of harm from [unexploded ordnance],” the Army announced after a successful test of the XM1180 in March 2024. Despite the bad press for DPICM, the Army is likely to keep it around even as next-generation cluster weapons are fielded.

“The military has consistently stated that DPICM is effective and should be retained in inventory for emergency use,” Mark Cancian, a researcher at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, told Defense News. “That is unlikely to change because it is a judgment based on testing data and operational experience.

“The key problem with ICM is getting the dud rate under 1% at an acceptable fiscal and weight cost,” Cancian added. “Previous attempts had reduced the dud rate but not below 1%, so the Army’s effort continues.” (Source: Defense News)

 

24 Nov 25. Firefly Aerospace Joins Kratos MACH-TB 2.0 Team for Hypersonic Testing. Firefly is partnering with Kratos Defense and Security Solutions as a member of the MACH-TB 2.0 team—an expanding national coalition driving the next era of American hypersonics. As a partner, we’re helping to advance Kratos’ goal of one hypersonic test launch per week, making testing faster, more frequent, and more affordable. Led by Kratos and supported by a diverse group of government, industry, and academic collaborators, MACH-TB 2.0 is enabling rapid innovation, integration, and deployment of the hypersonic capabilities our national defense demands. “Firefly is proud to serve as a launch partner for Kratos in support of another critical national security program,” said Adam Oakes, Vice President of Launch at Firefly Aerospace. “In today’s rapidly evolving geopolitical climate, advancing hypersonic technologies is essential to keeping our nation at the forefront of emerging defense technologies. Our Alpha launch vehicle is a natural fit for hypersonic testing, offering responsive launch solutions and custom payload accommodations that enable our customers to enhance current U.S. interceptor capabilities.” (Source: ASD Network)

 

24 Nov 25. Ukraine Scaling Up Production of Anti-Drone Ammunition. Several Ukrainian defence companies are preparing to launch mass production of anti-drone rounds. Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the expansion of production, saying the Ministry of Defense has already codified this type of ammunition from several Ukrainian manufacturers and that they are ready for large-scale output. The rounds are intended to help Ukrainian forces counter small enemy drones more effectively. Their key feature is a specialized projectile that increases the likelihood of downing a Russian drone, including FPV models. Shmyhal added that the rounds do not require separate weapons — they can be used with standard small arms In June, Ukraine authorized the military to use 5.56×45 mm anti-drone rounds designed to improve effectiveness against UAVs. The ammunition is produced in the widely used 5.56×45 mm caliber and can be fired from standard assault rifles. In appearance and function, it resembles a multi-projectile round: when fired, the projectile breaks into several fragments in flight. This increases shot density and improves the chance of a hit by two to three times. Each infantry soldier is expected to carry a dedicated magazine loaded with anti-drone rounds that can be quickly attached to a rifle when enemy UAVs are detected. Similar machine-gun-caliber models are also being developed in Russia. In March, local engineers reported achieving acceptable accuracy, with fragment dispersion forming a 25-centimeter pattern at 100 meters. The United States has also tested a specialized 5.56×45 mm anti-drone round designed to intercept FPV drones and small quadcopters at short range. (Source: UAS VISION/MILITARNYI)

19 Nov 25. UK “building the factories of the future” as government launches next phase of new munitions and energetics factories. Multiple sites across the UK for new factories to make munitions and military explosives to boost the UK’s warfighting readiness have been identified as the government moves to the next phase of building the factories of the future.

* UK’s warfighting readiness and firepower boosted as at least 13 potential sites now identified for new munitions and energetics factories, with construction expected to begin on the first in the next year.

* At least 1,000 new jobs will be created as energetics industries will return to the UK after closing down nearly two decades ago.

* Defence Secretary will commit to “building the factories of the future in Britain” in a speech which will also reveal two new drone factories opening in the UK this week.

Multiple sites across the UK for new factories to make munitions and military explosives to boost the UK’s warfighting readiness have been identified as the government moves to the next phase of building the factories of the future. In a speech in Westminster today, the Defence Secretary will announce that at least 13 sites across the UK have now been identified and will invite industry to submit proposals to meet the government’s requirements for energetics production. He will commit to “building the factories of the future in Britain” and expects industry to break ground on the first energetics factory in the next year. The Defence Secretary will confirm that MOD has now funded a number of feasibility studies for the new energetics factories to kickstart high volume energetics production at scale for the first time in nearly two decades. The engineering design work on the first of these factories has been commissioned with a view to start production for UK Armed Forces and to enable our continued support to Ukraine. Potential sites include Grangemouth in Scotland, Teesside in Northeast England, and Milford Haven in Wales. The factories will produce the components essential for bolstering the UK’s weapons arsenal including propellants, explosives and pyrotechnics. The Defence Secretary will say that the choices taken by the Chancellor at the upcoming Budget will ensure no return to the “hollowed out and underfunded” Armed Forces of the past. He will argue that the Government’s record increase in defence investment is essential to protect the British people from a “new era of threat” while also delivering a defence dividend from that investment, “Measured in good jobs, growing businesses, new skills across the UK.”

Defence Secretary John Healey MP is expected to say in his speech: “For too long our proud industrial heartlands saw jobs go away and not come back. We are changing that. Bringing new hope. This is a fundamental shift from the failed approach of the past. This is a new era of threat, but the opportunity of this new era is a defence dividend from our record investment, measured in good jobs, thriving businesses, new skills for the British people. We are making defence an engine for growth, unambiguously backing British jobs and British skills as we make the UK better ready to fight and better able to deter future conflicts. This is the path that delivers national and economic security.”

In the Strategic Defence Review published in June, MOD committed £1.5 bn of additional defence investment for energetics and munitions including the ‘always on munitions’ pipeline. The Government is committed to building at least 6 new munitions and energetics factories this parliament and creating at least 1,000 new jobs and driving defence as an engine for growth in every region and nation, supporting the government’s decade of national renewal. The MOD’s requirements for energetics production will be published online today in a Planned Procurement Note (PNN) which sets out the MOD’s plan to deliver a significant set of multi-year investments to support onshore production and generate growth in the UK. The document includes details of nine energetic materials which have been identified as key for the UK. The new munitions and energetics factories are delivering on the Strategic Defence Review’s commitment to move to warfighting readiness and need to boost the UK’s firepower for the Armed Forces.

Defence Secretary John Healey will also reveal that two new drone factories will open in the UK this week – in another sign of UK Defence being at the leading edge of innovation, boosting both security and growth. Following the speech, the Defence Secretary will open Helsing’s new ‘resilience factory’ in Plymouth, and Minister for the Armed Forces Alistair Carns travels to Swindon tomorrow (Thursday) to open STARK’s cutting edge drone production line. The cutting-edge factories demonstrate how the UK is at the leading edge of innovation and the benefits of defence growth deals – like that in Plymouth – which are backed by £250 m investment.

The war in Ukraine demonstrates the importance of the fast resupply of munitions by industry, and the benefits of a continual cycle of innovation between industry and the front line. The SDR set out the new £11bn ‘Invest’ annual budget has which has been established under the new National Armaments Director to fund kit for our front-line forces which is affordable and grows our UK industrial base. The government has also established UK Defence Innovation with £400m this year to fund and grow UK-based companies, and ringfenced 10% of the MOD equipment budget for novel technologies. Defence support supports over 460,000 jobs in the UK, including over 24,000 Ministry of Defence apprenticeships and last financial year spent £31.7bn with UK-based business. 70% of defence jobs are outside London and Southeast England and the MOD is committed to ensuring that the defence dividend is felt across the UK. The first-of-its-kind Strategic Defence Review was published in June to make Britain secure at home and strong abroad. The government is delivering at pace on the recommendations in the review to keep the British people safe, with national security the foundation of the Government’s Plan for Change. Defence is helping to drive the Government’s decade of national renewal across the nation.

The areas for the identified sites are:

* Monmouthshire

* Cumbria

* Dumfriesshire

* Ayrshire

* Shropshire

* Cheshire

* Derbyshire

* Essex

* Worcestershire

* Hampshire

* Pembrokeshire

* Stirlingshire

There is an Industry Day on the 8th January 2026.

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

Reader Comment: So the proposition is that the UK will return to the manufacture of explosives and propellants.  Who will buy them?  The largest user of explosives and propellants is the Army.  It is scheduled to have 148 Challenger 3 Main Battle Tanks and an unknown number of RCH 155 Self Propelled Artillery weapons.  The Ordnance on each of these systems is provided by Rheinmetall, which is building explosives and propellant plants across Europe.  Where is the business case for these proposed UK facilities?

 

18 Nov 25. L3Harris to invest $400m to expand solid rocket motor production in Arkansas.

* Summary

* New campus to expand rocket motor manufacturing capacity six-fold

* Facility to support U.S. missile defense modernization efforts

* L3Harris investing $500m across multiple states to meet defense demand

Defense supplier L3Harris Technologies (LHX.N) said on Tuesday it will invest $400m in a new solid rocket motor production campus in Arkansas, marking one of the largest such expansions in the U.S. in decades. The new 110-acre campus at Camden, Arkansas will feature more than 20 buildings and expand manufacturing capacity of large solid rocket motors by six fold. The expansion comes as the Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East have spurred demand for solid rocket motors used in long-range missiles and air defense systems. L3Harris makes rocket motors through its Aerojet Rocketdyne unit, which the defense contractor acquired more than two years ago in a $4.7bn deal. L3Harris has been producing rocket motors in Camden since 1979, and began building four solid rocket motor production facilities for smaller tactical weapons in February. The location produces more than 115,000 solid rocket motors of various sizes a year. The new Camden facility will produce medium and large rocket motors used in missiles, interceptors, and hypersonic weapons that form key parts of U.S. and allied air and missile defense systems. (Source: Reuters)

13 Nov 25. SWEBAL to supply TNT for Scandinavian X drones. Swedish-made TNT to support next-generation Scandinavian X drones built for NATO and Ukrainian markets. Explosives manufacturer Sweden Ballistics (SWEBAL) has signed a letter of intent (LoI) to supply domestically produced trinitrotoluene(TNT) to a Swedish-Ukrainian joint venture (JV), Scandinavian X, for use in upcoming drone systems. The LoI aims to reinforce defence supply chains across Europe. SWEBAL is set to commence TNT deliveries to Scandinavian X in 2028, supplying both NATO markets and Ukraine.

SWEBAL CEO and co-founder Joakim Sjöblomsaid: “We are proud to contribute to re-establishing Swedish production of strategic explosives. Our goal is to deliver the highest quality using modern technology, thereby enabling the systems and equipment that an effective defence needs.”

Scandinavian X was formed recently through a partnership involving Front Ventures, Skygaard Defense Solutions, and Hede Capital. The JV was formally announced on 23 October 2025 by Front Ventures, confirming collaboration with its partners to establish the new company. Scandinavian X plans to manufacture drones in Sweden based on technology from Ukrainian manufacturer Vluchnyk. This initiative will result in the first Swedish-Ukrainian drone factory in the Nordic region using NATO-standard components. Currently, construction of SWEBAL’s manufacturing facility is underway in Nora, Sweden with completion scheduled for 2028. Once operational, the factory will become one of the few sites in Europe to produce TNT, addressing a significant supply chain gap for both military and civilian applications. Until SWEBAL’s production begins, Scandinavian X will continue sourcing TNT from a Ukrainian supplier.

Front Ventures CEO and Scandinavian X board chairman Jonas Malmgren said: “This collaboration is an important step in strengthening both Swedish and European capacity in defence production. Domestic production of TNT means greater independence, shorter supply chains and more secure access for our future customers in NATO and Ukraine.”

The partnership between SWEBAL and Scandinavian X follows an earlier announcement by the former regarding a €3m ($3.5m) strategic investment round. SWEBAL secured the investment from former Sweden Army Chief Major General (ret) Karl Engelbrektson, and Thomas von Koch, the founding member and former CEO of EQT, a private equity firm. Recently, Finland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark announced collaboration for the joint procurement of uncrewed aircraft systems and related technologies. (Source: airforce-technology.com)

 

10 Nov 25. Avio and Lockheed Martin have signed a non-binding term sheet to support the establishment of Avio USA’s state-of-the-art solid rocket motor (SRM) facility in the United States, which expects to serve Lockheed Martin and other customers as a vertically integrated merchant supplier. Lockheed Martin will have preferred access to a portion of the Avio USA plant production capacity to meet future demand for its products while enhancing supply chain resilience to the US industrial base for both tactical and strategic size SRMs. The parties intend to negotiate a Strategic Cooperation Agreement in the near future to further align with the common goal of increasing the surety of supply for cost effective propulsion systems.

“Collaboration with Avio strengthens Lockheed Martin’s commitment to a diverse, resilient supply chain for solid rocket motors—key to our 21st Century Security® vision. This term sheet positions us to increase production of essential capabilities and deliver them to our customers faster as global demand grows,” said Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

“This term sheet marks a significant milestone in Avio’s long-term growth strategy and our commitment to strengthening international relationships in the aerospace and defense sector. The establishment of Avio USA’s SRM facility will allow us to bring our proven solid propulsion expertise to the United States, contributing to the innovation and development of a critical industrial supply chain. We are very pleased to contribute to Lockheed Martin’s ongoing success and look forward to supporting their future initiatives,” said Giulio Ranzo, CEO of Avio.

VADM (Ret) James Syring, CEO of Avio USA, stated: “The commercial relationship with Lockheed Martin, set forth in this term sheet, marks a pivotal step for the future of Avio USA, solidifying our status as a trusted partner and merchant supplier for both tactical and strategic size solid rocket motors in the U.S. Through this collaboration, we expect to deliver cutting-edge solid propulsion systems, enhancing the security and resilience of the American defense supply chain and strengthening the strategic bond between Avio and Lockheed Martin for years to come.”

Avio’s planned investments in fully integrated capabilities and specialized know-how are designed to promptly address customer needs, building on the company’s extensive heritage in solid rocket motor technology. This initiative will strengthen the U.S. solid propulsion industrial base, positioning Avio USA as a key contributor to the defense supply chain. Avio is a leading international group engaged in the manufacturing and development of space launchers and solid, liquid and cryogenic propulsion systems. The experience and know-how built up over more than 50 years puts Avio at the cutting-edge of the space launcher sector and defense program. Avio is present in Italy, France, United States and French Guyana, employing more than 1500 highly qualified personnel. Avio is the prime contractor for the Vega program and a sub-contractor for the Ariane program, as well as a leading solid rocket motor subcontractor for the design and manufacturing of major European tactical missile programs.

Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

10 Nov 25. Avio and Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to help Avio establish a state-of-the-art solid rocket motor (SRM) facility in the United States, serving Raytheon and other customers as a vertically integrated merchant supplier. Raytheon will have preferred access to a share of the Avio plant production capacity to meet future demand. This strategic partnership marks another significant milestone in the collaboration between the two companies, building on a contract signed in July 2024 for preliminary engineering work on the Mk104 rocket motor and a recent purchase order to fund through Critical Design Review and procurement of long lead material for qualification.

“This agreement will help establish an additional supplier of solid rocket motors within the U.S. and demonstrates our commitment to meeting the increasing demands of our customers,” said Bob Butz, Vice President of Operations, Supply Chain and Quality at Raytheon. “By leveraging Avio’s experience and unique capabilities in solid rocket motor propulsion development and manufacturing, we’re strengthening our capacity for critical weapon systems.”

The new Avio facility will be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for advanced SRMs and will contribute to the continued success of both companies in delivering high-quality defense products. Avio and Raytheon are committed to working together to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative and to support the defense needs of the United States and its allies.

“We are proud to be partnered with Raytheon for their future production capacity needs at our new factory facility. We look forward to leveraging the incredible pedigree and experience of our parent company Avio S.p.A. as we build our factory and establish in the U.S. as a true vertically integrated merchant supplier,” said VADM Ret. Jim Syring, CEO of Avio USA.

Avio is a leading international group engaged in the manufacturing and development of space launchers and solid, liquid and cryogenic propulsion systems. The experience and know-how built up over more than 50 years puts Avio at the cutting-edge of the space launcher sector and defense program. Avio is present in Italy, France, United States and French Guyana, employing more than 1,500 highly qualified personnel. Avio is the prime contractor for the Vega program and a sub-contractor for the Ariane program, as well as a leading solid rocket motor subcontractor for the design and manufacturing of major European tactical missile programs. Avio USA Inc. is a subsidiary of Avio S.p.A. with its headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. Avio USA is structured to operate in compliance with US security and export-control regulations and is governed by a US-led board of directors. The CEO of Avio USA is retired US Navy Vice Admiral James Syring, former Director of the US Missile Defense Agency. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

06 Nov 25. Inauguration of a New 155 mm Artillery-shell Production Unit at KNDS Belgium. A major strengthening of Belgian and European industrial capacity. The Belgian Minister of Defence, Mr. Théo Francken, today inaugurated a new Large-Calibre Machining and Banding Unit (UCGC) at the defence company KNDS Belgium. The facility includes an automated production line for 155 mm artillery shells, intended to strengthen the group’s industrial capacity — which already included two production lines — amid strong demand for munitions.

“One production line, two benefits: autonomy and jobs. By manufacturing our ammunition ourselves we keep the economic value added here and gain strategic strength. In 2026, with our CAESAR howitzers ready for use, we will be firing Belgian munitions,” Minister Francken said during the ceremony.

Alongside the Minister of Defence, the Walloon Minister for Economy, Industry and Employment, Mr. Pierre-Yves Jeholet, praised “this new production tool, a genuine demonstration of KNDS Belgium’s teams technological expertise, within a rapidly growing company.”

Mr. Jean-Michel Girard, Director of KNDS Belgium, stressed: “In 2026, nearly six months of production will be dedicated to shells for the Belgian Defence. This is a great source of pride for our company, which has been serving the Land Force for almost 90 years. We maintain a constructive and ongoing dialogue with Defence on technical, conceptual and operational levels. This investment generates workload while supporting our innovation dynamic and skills development. Many projects are still to come.”

He also recalled “the importance for Belgium of having a major national player in the field of medium and large-caliber munitions. With 350 employees, KNDS Belgium is a key player in Belgium’s defence industrial and technological base, and a globally recognised partner.

Finally, Major-General Filip Borremans, National Director of Armaments, confirmed: “The start-up of this automated 155 mm shell production line in Belgium marks a crucial step in strengthening our strategic autonomy, both nationally and at the European level. This robust and scalable production capability contributes not only to our operational readiness and our interoperability within NATO, but also to the resilience of the European defence industry.” (Source: ASD Network)

 

06 Nov 25. Possible Production of American Air Defence Ammunition in the Netherlands. A study into the possibility of producing American air defence ammunition in the Netherlands will be carried out next year. The US government approved the feasibility study at the end of last week.  The study will look into how the Dutch defence industry can contribute to the production, assembly and maintenance of AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles, or AMRAAMs.  AMRAAMs are advanced air defence weapons that are designed to counter medium-range aerial threats such as manned and unmanned aircraft and cruise missiles. They are carried by F-35 fighters for self-defence and are also used by ground-based air and missile defence units.  The strategic bilateral cooperation is a first step in AMRAAM co-production with a European NATO partner and will deepen transatlantic defence cooperation. It will also mitigate production shortages. Scaling up production is essential to continuing support for Ukraine and defending NATO territory. A proactive international approach to co-production is in keeping with the Netherlands’ defence strategy for industry and innovation.  Working with the US and other NATO members, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence intends to contribute to the production and accelerated delivery of AMRAAMs. Raytheon, the US manufacturer of AMRAAMs, will conduct the feasibility study. (Source: ASD Network)

 

04 Nov 25. Rheinmetall and Lithuania build artillery ammunition plant on NATO’s eastern flank. Rheinmetall is taking another step forward in its cooperation with Lithuania to support European and Atlantic security – right on NATO’s eastern flank. A new plant for the production of 155mm artillery ammunition is being built in the Lithuanian municipality of Baisogala. It will be operated by the joint venture Rheinmetall Defense Lithuania. During a festive ceremony, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda, Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė, Minister of Economy and Innovation Edvinas Grikšas, Minister of Energy Žygimantas Vaičiūnas, Rheinmetalls JV-partner EPSO-G Managing Director Mindaugas Keizeris and Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger broke ground on November 4th 2025.  The ceremony was also attended by high-ranking officials, including Minister of Finance Kristupas Vaitiekūnas, Minister of Interior Vladislav Kondratovič, CEO of Giraitės Ginkluotės Gamykla (GGG) Mindaugas Kurauskas, and General Manager of Invest Lithuania Elijus Čivilis. Other high-ranking guests from politics, administration, industry, diplomacy and the armed forces also took part. In addition, the German State Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Defence, Dr Nils Schmid, attended the ceremony, underscoring the close partnership between Lithuania and the Federal Republic of Germany in the field of security and defence policy. The Ammunition Plant Lithuania in Baisogala, operated by the joint venture Rheinmetall Defense Lithuania, will be a modern production facility for 155mm artillery ammunition covering an area of around 340 hectares. The Ammunition Plant Lithuania will include a shell casing forge and a filling plant. Production capacity is expected to be in the tens of thousands of projectiles per year. Up to €300 m will be invested directly in Lithuania. Up to 150 jobs will be created. The Lithuanian plant is scheduled to go into operation as early as 2026. Line qualification will initially take place until the end of 2026. Then, depending on the order situation, a gradual ramp-up will begin in 2027. Domestic industry and local suppliers will also be involved in the construction and operation of the Lithuania plant. In the course of the groundbreaking ceremony, the Ministry of Economy and Innovation and Rheinmetall signed another MoU to establish a Centre of Excellence for propellants, which will also be operated by Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva. Rheinmetall intends to establish production facilities for the manufacture of energetic components and combustible cartridgecases, as well as an assembly line for the production of modular propellant charges with a production capacity of several hundred thousand propellant charge modules per year at this centre of excellence.

Gitanas Nausėda, the President of the Republic of Lithuania: ‘For Lithuania, this state-of-the-art artillery ammunition production facility, the largest defense investment in country’s history, is not merely an industrial project. It is a strategic step aimed at building deterrence as a precondition for peace. Today, we witness how the Zeitenwende proclaimed in Berlin materializes on the Lithuanian soil in steel, technology and, most importantly, in trust.’

‘The future plant is a key element in strengthening the defensive capabilities and security of Lithuania and the wider region. It will help meet our own and our allies’ needs, fostering closer cooperation between Lithuania and Germany – two exemplary strategic partners. I am confident that the success of this project will encourage and pave the way for new partnerships, all aimed at enhancing security – the priority of our time,’ says the Prime Minister of Lithuania Inga Ruginienė.

Edvinas Grikšas, The Minister of Economy and Innovation: ‘Today’s Memorandum of Understanding marks a new milestone in Rheinmetall’s growing partnership with Lithuania. It is not only a new agreement, but also a clear sign of confidence that Lithuania offers a safe and reliable environment to invest, innovate and grow. We welcome Rheinmetall’s continued commitment, which helps build stronger industrial capacity and reinforces Lithuania’s strategic position in Europe.’

‘The new plant in Lithuania will be of strategic importance not only for Lithuania itself, but also for Europe and NATO,’ said Armin Papperger. “The security of our country and our allies is a matter of urgent concern to us all. We are grateful for Lithuania’s trust and support. I promise that we at Rheinmetall will do our part to ensure operational readiness here on NATO’s eastern flank!”

With the construction of the Lithuanian plant, Rheinmetall is continuing its commitment in the Baltic States. The Lithuania Defense Services joint venture in Jonava maintains combat vehicles for the German 45th Tank Brigade, other NATO armies and Ukraine. Another artillery plant is to be built in neighbouring Latvia in the near future.

 

03 Nov 25. Aston University researcher to develop lasers to detect hidden explosives.

• Dr Alberto Rodríguez Cuevas is a post-doctoral associate based at Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies
• He is developing a laser-based sensing technology to detect hazardous materials
• He has received a £250,000 fellowship from the Royal Academy of Engineering to fund his study.

An Aston University researcher has received a £250,000 fellowship from the Royal Academy of Engineering to fund the study of lasers to remotely detect hidden explosives.

Dr Alberto Rodríguez Cuevas is a postdoctoral researcher based at Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AIPT). Currently, he is developing a laser source for a new microscopy technique called dual-comb microscopy. This laser emits trains of ultra-short optical pulses with a very small and stable difference in their repetition rates. From January 2026 he will be using the same laser source to detect hazardous materials by identifying them directly or through the tiny chemical traces they release. This approach enables safe, fast, and remote detection, strengthening border security, protecting public spaces and enhancing national safety.

His research, called ‘Near-infrared dual-comb spectroscopy for stand-off detection of hazardous materials’, will be conducted at AIPT, one of the world’s leading photonics research centres which explores the science and technology of light.

The detection of dangerous substances from a safe distance, without being in direct contact with them, is a critical yet technically challenging goal in security and defence. Explosives have exceptionally low vapour pressures, making them difficult to detect compared to environmental pollutants. Also, hidden explosives release only trace volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere, requiring highly sensitive and selective detection technologies capable of operating at safe distances.

Dr Rodriguez said: “I am delighted to receive the fellowship. My project proposes the development of a dual-comb spectroscopy (DCS) platform for the stand-off –detection – that is from a safe distance – of hazardous materials, leveraging two complementary optical frequency comb (OFC) sources already developed at Aston University.

“My approach prioritises remote detection aligned with operational needs in border control, critical infrastructure protection, and urban security. By combining broadband coverage, high resolution, rapid acquisition, and portable implementation, this project aims to bridge the gap between laboratory OFC systems and field-deployable chemical threat detectors, offering a significant advancement in national security sensing capabilities.”

Dr Rodriguez is being supported by the Academy’s latest UK intelligence community postdoctoral research fellowships that can support the security and defence sector. He is the first researcher in Aston University history to receive this award and one of just five researchers in the UK to receive it. Each awardee receives funding for at least two years of their project, mentorship from a fellow of the academy and an adviser from the intelligence sector.

​

04 Nov 25. Radical Defense expands 3D-printed range of blast mitigation systems. US defence company Radical Defense showcased new blast mitigation solutions at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2025 exhibition, including the Blast Attenuation Device – M2 (BAD-M2) Direct Thread suppressor. Radical Defense has collaborated with weapons suppliers to develop a range of ballistic suppressors and blast mitigation devices for weapon calibres from 5.56×45 mm up to 30 mm, with work continuing for larger calibres up to 155 mm. By using additive manufacturing capabilities (a form of 3D printing), Radical Defense told Janes it has manufactured suppressor products with structural architectures which could not be replicated with conventional computer numerical control (CNC) machining technology. The focus on adopting an additive manufacturing-based supply chain, enabled by 3D printers supplied by UK-based company Renishaw, is intended to improve cost-efficiency and scaleable manufacturing across the firm’s entire portfolio of suppressor products. The BAD-M2 was designed for integration with the M2A1 and FN M2HB-QCB .50 calibre machine guns in service with a variety of armed services globally. Requiring no permanent modifications to the host weapon, the BAD-M2 integrates a flash hider within a monolithic, corrosion-resistant body covered in a proprietary infrared (IR)-suppressive, non-reflective coating, designed to reduce visual and IR spectrum signature. Radical Defense has been directly contracted by the US Navy’s Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Direct and Time Sensitive Strike (PMA-242) programme to develop a solution for FN Herstal’s FN M3M machine gun, a system currently in operation on various rotary-wing platforms of the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. (Source: Janes)

 

03 Nov 25. Rheinmetall and Romania jointly produce propellant powder. Rheinmetall and the Romanian company Pirochim Victoria, a subsidiary of Romarm, are establishing the joint venture Rheinmetall Victoria SA to produce propellant powder and modular propellants. The joint venture agreement was signed today in the Romanian capital Bucharest in the presence of Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, and Ilie Bolojan, Prime Minister of Romania.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, said: “Propellant powder remains a strategic bottleneck within the defence industry. The new production facility in Romania is another step towards our goal of achieving an annual production capacity of 20,000 tonnes of propellant powder by 2030.”

The total investment in the planned powder plant exceeds €500 m. Rheinmetall holds a 51% stake in the joint venture, with Pirochim Victoria holding the remaining 49%. The production plant is to be built in Victoria, Brasov County. The joint venture is expected to create around 700 jobs. The expected annual production capacity is around 300,000 modular propellant charges, requiring approximately 750 tonnes of powder. Additionally, 200 tonnes of propellant powder will be produced to meet local demand. Energy precursors such as nitrocellulose will also be produced locally. According to the current plans, the production of propellant powder and modular propellant charges is scheduled to begin in 2028. With this investment, Rheinmetall and Romania are establishing the strategically important production of propellant powder within the country. At the same time, the corporation will bolster its presence on NATO’s eastern flank. Romania, in turn, will be creating sustainable added value in its own country.

29 Oct 25. X-Bow Systems Inc (X-Bow), the leading non-traditional producer of advanced manufactured solid rocket motors (SRMs) and defense technologies, announced today an agreement that establishes the company as the first customer to adopt defense-grade artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities within the Astris AI Factory, a secure, end-to-end AI platform from Astris AI, a Lockheed Martin company. Launching SRMs at the speed of software. X-Bow is the first to deploy the Astris AI Factory (a Lockheed Martin Co. platform) to establish a Defense-Grade Digital Backbone. This accelerates manufacturing and delivers affordable capability. This move is designed to accelerate X-Bow’s ability to meet urgent national security production demands by establishing a trusted digital backbone for its factory operations. This is about applying defense-grade AI to X-Bow’s most sensitive, mission-critical functions—from secure data governance to factory control. This shift directly enables affordable and faster delivery of tactical rocket motors to the warfighter.

• Defense Focus: X-Bow is establishing an accredited digital environment with its first application being a secure AI agent. This initial governance step is critical to rapidly scaling affordable production for U.S. missile and hypersonics programs by proving the platform’s security for all proprietary Advanced Manufactured Solid Propellant (AMSP) processes.
• Security & IP: Using the Astris AI Factory, which is proven in classified environments, allows X-Bow to handle its core manufacturing IP with defense-grade security, ensuring data integrity from design to deployment.
• Manufacturing Control: The platform’s strategic operational focus is on advanced manufacturing control, leveraging Astris AI Factory’s generative AI and MLOps framework to free up engineering time and improve process control, enabling rapid, reliable iterations essential for defense production.
• Scale & Affordability: The agreement paves the way for X-Bow to rapidly extend this accredited platform across its manufacturing enterprise, enabling real-time production execution and higher throughput for tactical and large-scale rocket motors.

The Tech Stack

The platform integrates the latest AI enterprise software to operationalize sophisticated models.

• This framework allows X-Bow’s custom AI tools to securely retrieve and analyze proprietary technical data in real-time while drawing on multiple large language models for process optimization and digital twin fidelity.
• This architecture is designed to simplify and accelerate the accreditation process, a huge factor for defense suppliers operating on government programs.

The Takeaway

“This customer agreement dramatically improves our ability to secure the necessary accreditation to scale up manufacturing,” said Jason Hundley, Founder and CEO of X-Bow Systems. “This secure, accredited digital backbone is a game-changer for data governance and production integrity, allowing us to focus our engineering resources on delivering rapid, affordable solid rocket motors for our customers.”

“This collaboration marks a defining moment in bringing trusted and reliable AI directly to mission-critical environments,” said James Droskoski, CRO, Astris AI. “By integrating the Astris AI Factory platform into X-Bow’s advanced manufacturing operations, we’re helping deliver a secure, data-driven foundation that accelerates production, strengthens supply chain resilience, and upholds the highest standards of national security. Together, we’re proving that AI can transform both speed and affordability for critical systems that protect our nation.” (Source: PR Newswire)

 

28 Oct 25. Cooperation with Bulgaria: Rheinmetall and VMZ establish joint venture for the production of artillery ammunition. Rheinmetall and the Bulgarian company VMZ (Vazovski Mashinostroitelni Zavodi) are establishing a joint venture for the development and manufacture of artillery shells and energetic materials. A corresponding agreement was signed today. The total investment in the joint venture amounts to approximately €1 bn – one of the most significant investments in ammunition production in recent years. Rheinmetall holds a 51% stake in the joint venture, while VMZ holds 49%. The production facility will cover an area of around 100 hectares. The site is located in the Sopot region of Bulgaria. The joint venture is expected to create around 1,000 jobs. Annual production capacity will be around 100,000 shells and propellant charges for up to 150,000 shells. In addition, the joint venture will produce approximately 1,300 tonnes of propellant powder. This capacity will support VMZ’s business. According to current plans, production of projectile casings is scheduled to begin in 2027. Energetic materials are to be produced from 2028 onwards.

‘We are grateful for the Bulgarian government’s confidence in our capabilities,’ said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. ‘With the new production facility, we are further expanding our leading role as a manufacturer of artillery ammunition to continue supporting the defence capabilities of the European Union and NATO.’

About Rheinmetall: As an integrated technology group, the listed company Rheinmetall AG, headquartered in Düsseldorf, stands for a company that is as strong in substance as it is successful internationally, and that is active in various markets with an innovative range of products and services. Rheinmetall is a leading international systems supplier in the defence industry and at the same time a driver of forward-looking technological and industrial innovations in the civilian markets. With 40,000 employees on 174 sites word wide, Rheinmetall generated sales €9.8 bn in 2024.

 

24 Oct 25. Cuashub.com said today that Low-collateral counter-drone ammunition tested at Falcon Peak. Slow Shot LLC successfully demonstrated a low-collateral-damage counter-small-UAS (C-sUAS) capability during the Falcon Peak 25.2 event at Eglin Air Force Base, and is reportedly planning to scale production after reaching a technology readiness level appropriate for field trials. The company, one of six LCD C-sUAS technologies invited to take part in the Chicken Ranch range portion of Falcon Peak 25.2, told C-UAS Hub that it shot down a target UAS during the event and recorded effective hits out to 40 yards. The engagement used a bespoke shotgun-launched munition with each 2¾-inch cartridge containing 12 brass projectiles fitted with injection-moulded thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) wings. Slow Shot describes the projectiles as “aero-elastic,” with the wings furled when packed in the cartridge and then deployed as the projectiles slow in flight. This is said to produce drag and an auto-rotation effect intended to keep terminal velocity low and minimise risk to people, infrastructure and sensitive equipment such as radars or aircraft. The rounds can be fired from any 12-gauge shotgun with a cylindrical bore. The company said the design packs a dozen projectiles into a single cartridge by nesting the wings into slots cut into the projectile bodies. According to Matthew Searle, Founder of Slow Shot, this packing approach, is said to be critical to achieving both ease of loading and effective spread. Slow Shot reported a maximum ‘fall-of-shot’ of less than 500 feet for the projectiles. Searle noted that the project moved from concept to a TRL-7 field trial in a little over a year, a notably rapid development timeline, and that the primary idea behind the design of the low collateral damage munition is to keep the level of authorization required to use it as low as possible. Slow Shot is seeking investment in production tooling by year-end to scale manufacturing. The use case for shotgun-launched, low-velocity subprojectiles is to provide a low-collateral kinetic defeat option that can be employed where high-explosive interceptors or large kinetic interceptors would be inappropriate. Such systems are intended to offer a middle ground between non-kinetic measures such as jamming or spoofing and higher-risk kinetic effects, particularly in environments where bystander safety and infrastructure protection are priorities. https://cuashub.com/en/content/low-collateral-counter-drone-ammunition-tested-at-falcon-peak/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/

 

24 Oct 25. PGZ, MESKO, and EURENCO Sign Strategic Agreements. On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, PGZ S.A. and MESKO S.A. signed two strategic agreements with the French company EURENCO to acquire modular ammunition production technology and secure supplies of key raw materials necessary for their production. The CEOs of Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (Polish Armaments Group) Adam Leszkiewicz, EURENCO’s CEO Thierry Francou, and representatives of the MESKO S.A. management board signed an agreement enabling the establishment of a joint venture company to produce modular ammunition in Poland. The production capacity to be established through the initiative will meet the production needs of Factory No. 1 and Factory No. 2, which are part of PGZ’s ammunition cluster model of three 155 mm factories. It is anticipated that at least 600,000 modular ammunition units will be produced annually in Poland, with the possibility of acquiring additional ammunition from a foreign partner as needed.

“The cooperation between PGZ, MESKO, and EURENCO is an example of industrial partnership that truly strengthens the defense capabilities of Poland and Europe. Establishing the joint venture aligns with our concept of building three 155mm ammunition factories, allowing for production diversification and maximizing the expertise of individual plants. It is the first step towards building one of these factories for the production of multi-base powder” – said Adam Leszkiewicz, President of the Management Board of Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa.

“The creation of these joint ventures in Poland is a cornerstone of EURENCO current growth. During the last years, we have demonstrated our ability to act swiftly in setting up new production capacities, thereby contributing to the resilience of the industrial supply chain and ensuring the security of supply for our customers. By producing Artillery Modular Charges in Poland, with the highest standards of safety and performance, EURENCO contributes to the Poland Autonomy Strategy and fully connected with its mission as a key player in Defense in the service of the sovereignty” – said Thierry Francou, CEO of EURENCO.

The second strategic document signed during the ceremony was a letter of intent to secure the supply of key raw materials necessary for the production of modular ammunition. Combined with previous agreements between PGZ and foreign partners, this ultimately gives the Polish side sovereignty over the production of complete 155 mm ammunition.

“This is a step not only towards greater autonomy for our arms industry, but also an expression of responsibility to the needs of the Polish Armed Forces and our NATO allies. We are consistently developing our technological and manufacturing competences, becoming an increasingly important link in the European security system. EURENCO was selected after a lengthy process of selecting a technological partner for the production of gunpowder and modular charges” – added Adam Leszkiewicz. (Source: ASD Network)

 

22 Oct 25. BAE Systems expands SRM production capability for tactical missiles. BAE Systems is expanding its solid rocket motor (SRM) propellant production capabilities at Radford Army Ammunition Plant in southwestern Virginia, which operates under a government-owned, contractor-operated (GOCO) framework. The plant uses the extrusion method, which was the dominant technology before the development of cast-and-cure systems after the Second World War, Joe Bellotte, research and development manager for BAE Systems Ordnance Systems, told Janes on 13 October at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) exhibition in Washington, DC. Cast-and-cure technology employs binders such as rubber, which can hold more solids than BAE Systems’ extruded double-base propellant, he said, adding that cast SRMs “don’t have diametric limitations; they’ve got more energy”, leaving extruded propellant for small, low-cost, high-volume applications such as 2.75 inch (70 mm) rockets.

“What my team’s been doing for the last decade or so has been trying to close those perceived gaps between the cast-cure world and what we do, because inherently our technology is cheaper, inherently our technology is higher volume, so we can make stuff faster and make it more affordable,” Bellotte said.

“Those major gaps were diameter and energy. Diameter, up until 15 years ago, the biggest stuff we were making at Radford was the 2.75 [inch]. We’ve gone all the way up to 8.5 inch in diameter now,” he said.

“As far as energy is concerned, we’ve started incorporating solids into our formulations, which is like [what] the cast guys do, using some of the nitroamines that we manufacture at Holston [Army Ammunition Plant in Tennessee], which is also part of our business unit, to make higher energy density stuff,” Bellotte said. (Source: Janes)

19 Oct 25. Kawasaki in talks to develop Taurus missile engines, sources say.

• Firms signed MoU on project earlier this year, sources say
• Latest deal to show Japan’s retreat from decades of pacifism
• Germany seeking parliamentary approval to modernise Taurus
• Ukraine has repeatedly requested Taurus for use in war

Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries is in talks to co-develop new engines for Germany’s Taurus cruise missiles, two sources familiar with the matter said, another potentially significant step in Tokyo’s retreat from decades of pacifism. The Japanese contractor signed a memorandum of understanding on the project on the sidelines of a defence show in Tokyo in May, said the sources, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue. (Source: Reuters)

 

15 Oct 25. BAE Systems’ Scorpio-XR Extended Range Artillery Projectile Strikes a Decisive Blow. With multiple shots significantly exceeding recent test objective requirements by guiding to and impacting the target, Scorpio-XR demonstrated its compatibility with 155mm 52-caliber Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding howitzers. BAE Systems and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC) successfully tested the Scorpio-XR artillery projectile from a 155mm howitzer. With multiple shots significantly exceeding test objective requirements by guiding to and impacting the target, the tests demonstrated the compatibility of the Scorpio-XR rounds with 155mm 52-caliber Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding howitzers.

“We continue to push the boundaries of precision in long-range artillery systems and will continue to build on this success and explore the full potential of how this technology will impact the future of artillery systems,” said Jason Casciotti, program director for Combat Systems Development at BAE Systems. “The successful demonstration of the Scorpio-XR rounds is a major achievement for the program, and we’re proud of the progress we’ve made.”

This major program milestone shows BAE Systems’ ability to partner with the Army to advance guided-projectile technology to deliver key innovations at the round. When combined with advanced sensors, the Scorpio-XR will have the ability to achieve precision at ranges more than doubling existing cannon artillery munitions and improve lethality of division-level 155mm artillery weapon systems in contested environments. Formerly referred to as the XM1155-SC, the advanced long-range precision fires munition is now known as Scorpio-XR – a name that reflects its enhanced capability, extended range, and lethality overmatch for the U.S. Army brigade and division artillery units. Previously, the Scorpio-XR has successfully guided to and engaged targets at record setting distances from a variety of 155mm artillery weapon systems ranging from 39-caliber up to 58-caliber. (Source: ASD Network)

 

13 Oct 25. Solugen, a Texas-based chemical manufacturer pioneering scalable domestic production of critical materials for defense and industrial applications, today announced a partnership with American Rheinmetall Munitions (ARM), a leading U.S. provider of innovative munitions technologies headquartered in Vienna, VA. Together, the companies will expand the availability of affordable, U.S.-made energetics. The collaboration brings together Solugen’s ability to lower the cost and improve the availability of critical energetics inputs with ARM’s proven capacity to integrate those materials into advanced munitions and deliver them to the warfighter. The companies will reinforce the resilience of the U.S. defense industrial base and ensure that affordability and availability remain central to America’s overmatch advantage. This partnership highlights ARM’s role as an early mover in adopting new solutions while underscoring Solugen’s broader commitment to work across the defense ecosystem—helping primes, integrators, and the government alike secure affordable, CONUS-based supply chains for energetics.

“Our collaboration with Solugen enhances the scalability and speed at which we can deliver advanced energetics, while driving down cost. It’s a strategic step that strengthens the U.S. defense industrial base and ensures critical technologies reach the Warfighter faster,” Gary Goodwin, CEO, American Rheinmetall Munitions.

“Solugen is committed to helping the defense community secure resilient, U.S.-based supply chains while bending the cost curve for next-gen energetics,” said Sean Hunt, PhD, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Solugen. “By collaborating with ARM—and with other leaders across the sector—we’re building pathways that make advanced energetics more affordable and more accessible for America’s defense.”

In parallel, Solugen continues its important work under the Department of War’s Distributed Bioindustrial Manufacturing Program (DBIMP), where it was awarded a contract to advance bioindustrial manufacturing capabilities and scale up critical defense-relevant molecules. This program directly complements Solugen’s partnership with ARM by ensuring resilient, domestic production of precursors that feed into advanced energetics. Solugen and ARM will share more about their collaboration and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to make the partnership official at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday October 14, at 9am on the American Rheinmetall booth #1339. Visitors are welcome to engage with the team to learn more on site.

About Solugen

Solugen is a Texas-based chemical manufacturer pioneering scalable, domestic production of critical materials for defense and industrial applications. By making energetics inputs more cost-effective and more available, Solugen strengthens CONUS supply chains and supports faster adoption of advanced energetics across the defense sector.

About American Rheinmetall Munitions

American Rheinmetall Munitions is a leading U.S. provider of innovative munitions technologies, offering advancements in lethality with next-generation weapon systems. Headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, with production facilities in Camden, Arkansas, and Windham, Maine, ARM integrates advanced energetics into munitions to provide sustained overmatch for the U.S. Warfighter. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

13 Oct 25. General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) announced the successful test of its Long Range Maneuvering Projectile (LRMP) at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground, achieving key flight milestones when fired from a M777 howitzer platform. During the August test, GA-EMS fired multiple LRMP rounds using M231 powder charges, demonstrating sabot separation, de-spin stabilization, wing deployment and controlled descent. The LRMP is a next-generation munition engineered to extend the range and precision of existing 155mm artillery systems. Equipped with deployable aerodynamic control surfaces and onboard guidance, it can actively maneuver in flight to engage targets at extended distances—even in GPS-denied or degraded environments. Recent test flights matched predictive models and yielded valuable data to support upcoming demonstrations at significantly increased ranges.

“This milestone reflects our commitment to delivering disruptive technologies for precision artillery,” said Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. “As the U.S. faces rising threats from near-peer adversaries and increasingly contested environments, affordable, mass-produced artillery is critical. LRMP meets that need while proving its ability to perform in extreme conditions and reshape long-range firepower.”

GA-EMS continues to lead in the development of electromagnetic systems, hypersonics and precision-guided munitions. The LRMP platform supports modernization goals across multiple services and offers a scalable, field-proven solution for future battlefield applications.

About General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) develops innovative technologies to create breakthrough solutions supporting operational environments from undersea to space. From electromagnetic, power generation and energy storage systems and space systems and satellites, to hypersonic, missile defense, and laser weapon systems, GA-EMS offers an expanding portfolio of capabilities for defense, government, and national security customers. GA-EMS also provides commercial products and services targeting hazardous waste remediation, oil and gas, and nuclear energy industries. For further information, visit www.ga.com/ems

 

14 Oct 25. Global Military Products (GMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Global Ordnance Holdings, announced today the signing of a strategic teaming agreement with Hanwha Aerospace to jointly pursue future U.S. Department of Defense opportunities in ammunition and energetics production.

“This partnership represents a significant step toward strengthening the domestic defense industrial base,” said Jeff Brunozzi, President of Global Ordnance Holdings. “By aligning

GMP’s U.S. program management and manufacturing expertise with Hanwha’s advanced energetics and munitions technologies, we are positioned to bring cutting-edge ,capabilities to the U.S. Army and allied forces.”

Under the agreement, GMP and Hanwha intend to pursue operating contracts and establish new energetics and munitions technologies. The collaboration will focus on developing next-generation energetics, propellants, and ammunition components to support Army modernization efforts and ensure resilient, scalable U.S. manufacturing for critical munitions.

“Hanwha is committed to expanding our presence in the U.S. defense market through meaningful industrial partnerships,” said Mike Smith, President & CEO of Hanwha Defense USA. “Together with GMP, we aim to strengthen supply chain resilience and deliver advanced munitions solutions that enhance the readiness and capability of U.S. and allied forces.”

This agreement underscores GMP’s continued growth as a trusted U.S. defense partner It reflects the company’s long-term commitment to revitalizing domestic ammunition and energetics production infrastructure in support of the Army’s modernization priorities.

www.global-ordnance.com

 

13 Oct 25. American Rheinmetall Munitions and Solugen to Formalize Partnership to Make Innovative, Advanced American Energetics More Affordable American Rheinmetall Munitions, a leading U.S. provider of innovative munitions technologies headquartered in Vienna, VA, announced today that they will partner with Solugen, a Texas-based chemical manufacturer pioneering scalable, domestic production of critical materials for defense and industrial applications, to expand the availability of new and affordable, U.S.-made energetics to support faster adoption of advanced energetics across the defense sector. The collaboration brings together Solugen’s ability to lower the cost and improve the availability of critical energetics inputs with American Rheinmetall Munitions proven capacity to integrate those materials into advanced munitions and deliver them to the Warfighter at scale. Together, the companies will reinforce the resilience of the U.S. defense industrial base to ensure that affordability and availability remain central to America’s overmatch advantage. This partnership highlights American Rheinmetall Munitions’ role as an early mover in adopting new solutions while underscoring Solugen’s broader commitment to work across the defense ecosystem—helping primes, integrators, and the Department of War alike secure affordable, U.S.-based supply chains. “Our collaboration with Solugen enhances the scalability and speed at which we can deliver advanced energetics, while driving down cost. It’s a strategic step that strengthens the U.S. defense industrial base and ensures critical technologies reach the Warfighter faster,” said Gary Goodwin, CEO, American Rheinmetall Munitions. “Solugen is committed to helping the defense community secure resilient, U.S. based supply chains while bending the cost curve for next-gen energetics,” said Sean Hunt, PhD, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Solugen. “By collaborating with American Rheinmetall Munitions —and with other leaders across the sector—we’re building pathways that make advanced energetics more affordable and more accessible for America’s defense.” American Rheinmetall Munitions and Solugen shared more about their collaboration and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to make the partnership official at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) .

09 Oct 25. Pentagon’s 2027 missile drive signals US strategy reset. The Pentagon’s accelerated plan to boost missile and munitions production marks a “foundational reset” in United States defence strategy, according to analysis by Bloomberg Intelligence. The research suggests that missile procurement funding could rise by 30 percent or more if the Department of Defense moves ahead with plans to more than double production across 12 critical munitions programs. The Pentagon has reportedly tasked industry with achieving a 2.5-fold increase in output over the next two years to prepare for a potential high-intensity conflict with China by 2027. Bloomberg Intelligence stated that the shift reflects “a foundational reset in US munitions strategy”, with Lockheed Martin, RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies), and Northrop Grumman positioned to benefit from what analysts describe as a “multiyear growth runway and a possible valuation rerating.” According to the analysis, the Pentagon’s Section 890 “TINA Lite” pilot programme will enable streamlined contracting for munitions deals over $50 m, reducing cost and pricing data requirements. The policy change, signed in July by Peter Guinto, Director of Price, Cost and Finance at the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense, is intended to accelerate procurement cycles and expand industrial capacity. The report noted that the US may currently lack sufficient stockpiles of critical munitions to sustain a major conflict, citing gaps in missile production and supply chain resilience. It also identified Lockheed’s PAC-3 interceptors, JASSM, LRASM and PrSM, and RTX’s SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles as priority systems under the Pentagon’s new Munitions Acceleration Council, led by Deputy Secretary of Defense Steve Feinberg. Bloomberg Intelligence calculated that incremental costs for the expansion could reach up to $9bn, on top of the $28.3 bn requested for fiscal 2026 missile and munitions procurement. Lockheed Martin’s missile and fire control business was highlighted as a major beneficiary, with projected production increases of up to 50 percent by 2027. RTX is also expected to gain from expanded SM-6 and Tomahawk output, while Northrop Grumman’s Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM) and Stand-in Attack Weapon (SiAW) were identified as growth drivers amid international demand. Emerging entrants such as Anduril and the Prometheus Energetics joint venture between Kratos and Rafael are expected to play roles in alleviating solid rocket motor bottlenecks that have constrained production. Bloomberg Intelligence described the overall Pentagon initiative as a broad effort to rebuild munitions stockpiles and prepare US industry for sustained near-peer competition. (Source: UKDJ)

 

07 Oct 25. Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, and Anduril have successfully conducted a static fire test of an advanced solid rocket motor under a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory Munitions Directorate. In response to the increasing global demand for munitions, Raytheon has been working with domestic and international partners to enhance U.S.-based rocket motor manufacturing capacity.

“This test demonstrates more than just a technical achievement,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon. “It’s about building a more robust and adaptable supply base for solid rocket motors that can rapidly respond to emerging national security needs.”

By partnering with Anduril, Raytheon is expanding the defense technology ecosystem and addressing critical limitations in the rocket motor supply base. This collaboration exemplifies the company’s composable weapons strategy, which aims to create more flexible and adaptable missile systems through strategic partnerships.

“Designing and firing a Highly Loaded Grain rocket motor is one of the most technically demanding tasks in the solid rocket motor industry,” said LTG (ret.) Neil Thurgood, Senior Vice President, Anduril Industries. “Achieving this result highlights the strength of Anduril’s engineering team and demonstrates our ability to deliver high-performance propulsion solutions in a domain long defined by a small set of providers.”

(Source: PR Newswire)

 

03 Oct 25. Northrop Grumman tests longer-range anti-drone bullets after Ukraine feedback.

• Summary
• Northrop Grumman tests 50mm-plus cannon bullets
• Ukraine’s military wants longer-range bullets to shoot down drones
• Using bullets against drones is much cheaper than using missiles
• Fragmenting ammunition boosts anti-drone cannon effectiveness

U.S. defence firm Northrop Grumman (NOC.N) is testing higher calibre cannon bullets to shoot down drones at lower cost, based on feedback from Ukrainian soldiers who are increasingly facing swarms of high-flying unmanned aircraft, a top company executive told Reuters. Governments are keen for ways to defeat low-cost drones with equally low cost or cheaper interceptors. Currently the most cost-effective way is to shoot down a drone with a bullet, which costs pennies or dollars while many interceptor missiles, such as the Patriot, cost ms of dollars each. (Source: Reuters)

02 Oct 25. US Army Conducts Successful Soldier-Led Flight Test Series of LM’s PrSM. The U.S. Army successfully completed a series of soldier-led flight tests of Lockheed Martin’s (NYSE: LMT) Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, demonstrating system readiness and advancing the service’s modernization priorities.  During September tests, American soldiers fired missiles from a HIMARS and both pods of the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) M270A2, marking a significant achievement and the first time multiple rockets were fired from both launchers. The successful tests ultimately enable a more lethal force by providing soldiers cutting-edge, long-range target neutralization capabilities on proven platforms.

“This milestone validates the soldier’s ability to fire PrSM from all platforms in the U.S. Army inventory and certifies mission readiness,” said Carolyn Orzechowski, vice president of Precision Fires Launchers and Missiles at Lockheed Martin. “Lockheed Martin is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation to deliver the most advanced 21st Century Security® solutions to the warfighter – leveraging digital technologies to streamline development, testing and fielding.”

The tests demonstrated extended range against targets and compatibility with both Lockheed Martin-built launcher platforms. PrSM met success criteria for lethality, range and accuracy from launch to impact, supporting the Army’s efforts to defend our homeland and deter adversaries. The progress of the PrSM program is a testament to the successful collaboration and innovative development approach between Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Army, which prioritizes speed, agility and close partnership. PrSM is designed to provide a next-generation, long-range precision strike capability that neutralizes targets out to more than 400 kilometers. The missile is designed with an open systems architecture, providing maximum affordability and flexibility. PrSM features a modular design that allows for future growth and upgrades. (Source: ASD Network)

25 Sep 25. Latvia orders Rheinmetall ammunition factory – Group expands global ammunition production network. Rheinmetall is further expanding its ammunition production capacity and is now planning to build a modern production facility for 155 mm calibre artillery ammunition in Latvia. In the presence of Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, a corresponding Memorandum of Understanding was signed today in Hamburg. The facility shall be operated by a joint venture between Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH (51%) and the Latvian State Defence Corporation, LLC of Latvia (49%). The key points were documented in a memorandum of understanding, which was signed by representatives of both sides. By establishing its own 155 mm ammunition production facility, Latvia is taking a further step towards strengthening its defence capabilities and expanding its independent defence sector. The produced ammunition is to ensure supplies for the National Armed Forces of Latvia, as well as strengthen security of supply chains and be available to partner countries. The production line will feature a state-of-the-art production facility, including a shell forging and filling line. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring of 2026, with production expected to start around a year later. The €275m investment will enable the facility to produce tens of thousands of artillery shells and create at least 150 local jobs. Regional companies and the domestic economy will be integrated into the facility’s value chain.

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa said: “Signing this MoU is a clear step towards strengthening Latvia’s security and developing our defence industry. By aiming to establish partnership with Rheinmetall Latvia not only builds stronger national defence, but also contributes to security of supply in Europe, enhancing industrial capacity as well as facilitating economic growth. I have been directly involved in this process because I believe that investing in our defence industry is investing in the safety and future of our people.”

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We are delighted to be able to contribute to Latvia’s national sovereignty in the field of ammunition. At the same time, the production line will strengthen our position as the world’s leading manufacturer of artillery ammunition. At Rheinmetall, we are committed to supporting our customers as a reliable partner with first-class services. I am confident that we will also build similar partnerships for ammunition production in other countries”.

Ingrida Kirse, Board Member of the State Defence Corporation: “With the utmost sense of responsibility, we are taking on the entrusted task of jointly establishing an artillery ammunition production facility in Latvia. I am confident that all the necessary conditions are in place, as this project brings together several essential components. On the one hand, the mission of the State Defence Corporation is to ensure the needs of the National Armed Forces and to foster the development of Latvia’s defence industry by developing manufacturing capacity. On the other hand, Rheinmetall contributes its longstanding expertise, accumulated know-how, high standards, and international recognition. This synergy forms the foundation of a strong partnership that will both advance the industry and strengthen the security of Latvia and the wider region.”

It was only at the end of 2024 that Rheinmetall was commissioned by Latvia’s neighboring Lithuania to build a modern ammunition production facility for artillery shells. Construction of the plant, which is set to begin in a few weeks at the Baisogala site in the heart of Lithuania, mirrors the size and design to the facility planned for Latvia.

 

25 Sep 25. Rheinmetall plans to sign agreement on new ammunition plant in NATO state. German defence contractor Rheinmetall (RHMG.DE) said on Thursday it plans to sign a preliminary agreement in Hamburg later in the day to build a new ammunition factory in an as-yet unspecified NATO member state. European states have been boosting arms and ammunition production capacity since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Rheinmetall last month opened a new ammunition plant in northern Germany, which is set to become Europe’s largest at full capacity, saying at the time that similar factories could be built in other NATO countries. (Source: Reuters)

 

22 Sep 25. Rheinmetall Denel Munition highlights major investments during DoD oversight visit. A delegation from the Department of Defence (DoD) Denel Oversight Unit, led by Chief Director Operations Weekend Bangane, and Chief Director Finance Vuyo Hlatshwayo, last week visited the Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) Somerset West Site as part of their oversight responsibilities. The visit, to evaluate and strengthen the partnership, provided both RDM and the DoD with an opportunity for a formal introduction, following the proclamation of the move of the Denel Oversight Unit from the Department of Public Enterprise to their line Ministry, the Department of Defence, RDM said.

RDM’s Chief Financial Officer, Ingrid Stoltz, welcomed the delegation and provided an overview of the company’s recent investments. These include an annual R1bn investment in upgrading and expanding operations at its four manufacturing sites in Somerset West, Wellington, Boksburg, and Boskop (this figure excludes plant maintenance). RDM also highlighted its R85 m investment in skills development and bursaries, alongside its commitment to supporting military veterans.

Last year RDM CEO Dr Frank Dirksen said the company has plans to invest significant amounts into the expansion of mainly 155 mm artillery ammunition in South Africa. He said RDM is on track to more than double its existing capacity over the next two to four years. In July, RDM announced the largest order in its history. Sweden ordered R7.3 bn worth of 155 mm artillery rounds for delivery between 2025 and 2027. The record order comes on the back of a major 155 mm ammunition order for a customer worth tens of ms of euros that was announced at the beginning of June. The company reiterated its ongoing support for South African local suppliers, including SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises), with spending set to exceed R4 bn in 2025. RDM also shared its investment in cutting-edge technology development, including the LongClaw guided warhead and the 120 mm Rocket Assisted Mortar Ammunition with a 15 km range. RDM reaffirmed its commitment to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), showcasing key initiatives such as the integration of the Assegai family of 155 mm projectiles onto the SANDF’s G5/G6 45 calibre howitzers, and its readiness for a full-scale infantry mortar bomb refurbishment programme in support of the SANDF. The Denel Oversight was also keen on monitoring the trend in the company’s performance since the establishment of Rheinmetall Denel Munition, RDM added.

RDM is a joint venture between the German defence systems group Rheinmetall and the local state owned enterprise, Denel. Rheinmetall owns 51 percent and Denel, 49 percent of the joint venture.

The joint venture was launched in 2008, when Rheinmetall took over a number of Denel’s large and medium-calibre ammunition plants. In South Africa, RDM specialises in the production of 155 mm artillery ammunition, the NATO standard, but also produces mortar and infantry systems, including 40 mm ammunition, propellants, rocket motors and subsystems for missiles. Another of the company’s product areas is the provision of minefield breaching equipment for demining.

RDM employs around 2 500, but it also has 1 500 Tier 1 suppliers, who produce a final product for the company. Assuming its own employees and those of its Tier one suppliers support five people, RDM’s activities could be supporting up to 250 000 people to varying extents. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

 

20 Sep 25. Questions relating to a Press Release on 155mm. On 12 September 2025 Defense News reported that Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) and BAE Systems have entered into a strategic partnership to establish a new 155mm artillery ammunition manufacturing facility in Poland, aimed at increasing the nation’s production of battlefield ammunition

It went to say: BAE Systems will transfer technology and know-how to PGZ, increasing Poland’s production capabilities and helping to bolster NATO’s eastern flank. The munitions factory will use BAE Systems’ manufacturing technology and feature the same automated technology that will deliver a sixteen-fold increase in production capacity of 155mm artillery shells at its facilities in the UK.

The piece then claimed: BAE Systems’ 155mm shells are NATO compliant, compatible with Poland’s military platforms and interoperable with other standard combinations of charge, fuse and primers.

This is all impressive stuff, however it does raise some questions. First of all some context:

• The UK has donated its AS90 Self Propelled Howitzers to Ukraine. It has acquired 14 Archer Systems from Sweden. It has agreed to acquire the RCH 155 system along with journey. The number of RCH 155 to be procured by UK is not known. The system is not qualified, however it is due to enter service at some point around the end of this decade.
• The RCH 155 weapon is the 52 calibre ordnance as designed and produced by Rheinmetall to be carried on the Boxer drive module.
• The UK suite of 155mm ammunition, which was used in conjunction with the AS90 39 calibre weapon,(the FH70 familiy), has been deemed previously to be not fully compatible with 52 calibre weapons.
• Poland has the 52 calibre Krab weapon and the 52 calibre K9 from Hanwha. To date Poland has taken delivery of 192 K9A1 Self Propelled Howitzers. Army Recognition reports:

Poland’s deal with Hanwha Aerospace originally included the acquisition of 212 K9A1s with options for local K9PL production.

• In 2023 BAE Systems confirmed the purchase of 155mm Bi Modular Charges from Hanwha, when BAE said:

“Our order for the supply of modular charge systems demonstrates the compatibility of the Hanwha Aerospace MCS system with our 155mm ammunition.”

Some questions:

1. Given that the UK does not have a 155mm Capability beyond the 14 Archer systems; are we to assume that 155mm ammunition production in UK is for Ukraine?
2. What ammunition design will be the subject of the PGZ / BAE cooperation?
3. What ammunition design will be used with the RCH 155 system?
4. What are the figures behind the sixteen fold increase in production capacity? For instance where are the fuzes coming from?
5. Are the Hanwha charges for Archer, Ukraine, or RCH 155?
6. Is the FH70 family of ammunition now fully 52 calibre compatible?

There is probably a simple response to each of these questions. However this admittedly positive media announcement around 155mm appears to show a lack coherence, and does not immediately demonstrate alignment with other developments across Europe. If we assume that industrial capability is a vital part of military capability then deterrence would be enhanced by the coherent presentation of that industrial capability. (Source: Paul Hough/Alterius Rei/Substack)

12 Sep 25. Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) and BAE Systems have entered into a strategic partnership to establish a new 155mm artillery ammunition manufacturing facility in Poland, aimed at increasing the nation’s production of battlefield ammunition. BAE Systems will transfer technology and know-how to PGZ, increasing Poland’s production capabilities and helping to bolster NATO’s eastern flank. The munitions factory will use BAE Systems’ manufacturing technology and feature the same automated technology that will deliver a sixteen-fold increase in production capacity of 155mm artillery shells at its facilities in the UK. The Company’s 155mm artillery ammunition has played a critical and central role in the firepower capability of the British Army for more than 50 years, delivering quality, performance and advanced munitions to soldiers. BAE Systems’ 155mm shells are NATO compliant, compatible with Poland’s military platforms and interoperable with other standard combinations of charge, fuse and primers. This partnership will increase PGZ and Poland’s ability to strengthen the nation’s indigenous supply chain, reducing dependency on overseas suppliers and creating 100s of highly skilled jobs in Poland.

Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems Chief Executive, said: “This partnership builds on our existing long-term defence relationship with Poland.​​ Transferring technology and learning will enable Poland to significantly expand its production capacity of critical 155mm munitions, helping to strengthen its industrial base and supply chain resilience in the face of an increasingly volatile security environment. This is not only important for Poland’s own national defence but will also help to enhance its contribution to securing NATO’s eastern flank.”

Adam Leszkiewicz, President of the Management Board of PGZ SA, said: “When evaluating the individual offers, we placed particular emphasis on achieving production sovereignty and the development potential of PGZ’s ammunition domain. Considering that this is an open-ended contract, under which we are acquiring completely new competencies for many years, we analysed a very broad range of criteria. I am confident that we made the right choice, beneficial both for the future of our group and for our country’s international relations.”

Global demand for artillery ammunition has increased dramatically over the past three years and 155mm shells are a critical asset for Poland’s self-propelled howitzers, the K9 and Krab. PGZ intends to increase its production capacity to between 150,000–180,000 large-calibre shells annually to support the country’s national security requirements.

This partnership builds on the UK Government’s aspiration of an even closer relationship with Poland, with defence industrial cooperation in complex weapons announced in its Strategic Defence Review earlier this year.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “We are backing British businesses to win on the international stage and this investment is a vote of confidence in British industry. This new partnership will strengthen Poland’s security while broadening our UK-Polish defence industrial partnership, showing how defence is an engine for growth across our two nations. Here at home, we are delivering on the Strategic Defence Review’s recommendations to create an ‘always on’ munitions production capacity.”

Work will begin on the new munitions factory in Poland this year and is expected to complete by 2027/2028.

 

 

08 Sep 25. UK disclosure reveals Ajax lacks anti-drone ammunition. The UK has apparently opted not to procure airburst ammunition for its Ajax armoured fighting vehicles. The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has stated that the British Army’s new Ajax armoured fighting vehicles (AFV) will not operate airburst ammunition from the 40mm main gun. Developed by CTA International, the 40mm main gun fires a type of munition known as Cased Telescoped Ammunition intended to offer advantages over more conventional designs, in being more compact and providing increased reliability. According to the MoD, the CTA International weapon is compatible with a range of ammunition types: Armour Piercing Fin Stabilised Discarding Sabot-Tracer (APFSDS-T); Kinetic Energy Airburst (KE-AB); General Purpose Round – Airburst – Tracer (GPR-AB-T); General Purpose Round – Point Detonating – Tracer (GPR-PD-T); General Purpose Round – Kinetic Energy – Tracer (GPR-KE-T); Target Practice – Tracer (TP-T); and Target Practice Reduced Range – Tracer (TPRR-T). However, the UK Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle confirmed on 4 September that of the seven ammunition types, “only the APFSDS-T, GPR-PD-T, and TP-T have been procured for use on Ajax”. According to CTA International, the KE-AB munition delivers a payload of tungsten pellets with a directional terminal effect, considered to be “particularly effective against all aerial threats”, as well as ground applications such as infantry or blinding vehicle optics or antenna. The CTA 40mm main gun is able to reach an elevated firing angle of 85°, ideal for combating drones.  The lack of an airburst munition for Ajax is notable given the proliferation of combat drones in the Ukraine-Russia war, where armoured vehicles have proven to be particularly vulnerable to attack from first-person drones and loitering munitions. Such has been the impact of drone use in Ukraine, the British Army is exploring the benefits of so-called ‘cope cages’ fitted to armoured vehicles, effectively applique slat armour that serves to detonate incoming charges prematurely. Earlier this week, the UK MoD confirmed its armoured cavalry programme will deliver a further 55 Ajax-series armoured vehicles between July 2025 and December 2025, for a total of 128 units delivered over the course of the year, according to new official figures. Of 589 Ajax-series armoured vehicles, across six variants, being built for the British Army, 245 will be equipped with the turreted 40mm main gun. (Source: army-technology.com)

BATTLESPACE Comment:  This decision comes as some surprise as the Airburst round which took many years and millions of public money to develop, was seen as key to the success full deployment of CT40 for close protection of support infantry. Although the current Ajax system is not used a troop carrier the new version being unveiled at DSEI is seen as possible Warrior replacement. Sources suggest that price played a key role in dropping the airburst rind.  Having said that, persistent barrel wear issues identified form the very start of the project by Qinetiq coud be a reason as the airburst munitions will be be fired through the barrel. However GDUK had made important changes to the elevation of the Ajax turret to accommodate the ability to engage UAVs. The lack of an airburst round renders Ajax vulnerable to UAS attack.

 

05 Sep 25. Poland to choose two partners to build ammunition factories. Poland is set to name two joint venture partners to build ammunition production facilities, the CEO of the Polish Armaments Group, or PGZ, said, as the Ukraine war drives demand for artillery shells. Warsaw believes a partner from abroad will help Poland to produce ammunition from start to finish domestically, reducing reliance on external suppliers.  Adam Leszkiewicz, CEO of state-owned PGZ, told Reuters the company is finalising agreements for a projectile plant and a separate propellant facility, with announcements expected in the coming weeks. In March, Deputy Defence Minister Cezary Tomczyk told Reuters that companies from France, Germany, South Korea and Turkey are competing to establish a joint venture with Poland to manufacture ammunition. Leszkiewicz declined to disclose the origin of the company or say whether it is European. (Source: Reuters)

 

05 Sep 25. Rheinmetall has taken Europe’s largest ammunition factory in Lower Saxony into operation in order to meet the urgent needs of the armed forces in Europe. The technology group has invested almost €500 m in the construction of the production facility at the Rheinmetall site in Unterluess (Celle district), which was completed in a record time of just 15 months. The presence of many dignitaries from Germany and abroad highlighted the importance of the occasion. Guests present were Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister of Finance Lars Klingbeil, Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and General Carsten Breuer, Chief of Defence of the German Armed Forces. The highest-ranking guest was Rumen Radev, President of Bulgaria. Olaf Lies, Minister-President of Lower-Saxony, also attended the ceremony, as did many other high-ranking persons, including guests from the United States of America, Latvia and Lithuania. In future, up to 350,000 artillery shells are to be produced annually in Unterluess at the new Lower-Saxony plant (Werk Niedersachsen), which covers an area of around 30,000 m2. The first 25,000 rounds are to be produced before the end of this year. Next year, 140,000 rounds are scheduled for delivery, with full capacity to be reached in 2027. In addition to that, the production of engines for artillery rockets is planned for the year 2026. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger: “After having accelerated the production to the maximum until 2027 and then being at full capacity, the Werk Niedersachsen will be the largest ammunition plant in Europe, if not the world”.

In total, this will create up to 500 jobs – 350 at the plant in Lower-Saxony and a further 150 in the rocket engine production, which is still under development. Hundreds of more jobs will thus be created in areas such as supplementary services and suppliers.

The supply of ammunition is essential for restoring the defence capabilities of Germany and its European allies. Rheinmetall takes on the responsibility as a leading manufacturer and is investing at large-scale at various locations. Most recently, in the summer of 2023, the Düsseldorf-based group spent around €1.2 bn on the acquisition of Spanish manufacturer Expal Systems. Rheinmetall plans to produce a total of around 1.5 m artillery shells per year from 2027 onwards throughout its production network, which also includes sites in Spain and South Africa.

The urgency of the defence alliance’s need for ammunition was underscored in Unterluess by a major order from NATO member Romania, which was placed just before the inauguration ceremony began. Radu-Dinel Miruță, Romania’s Minister of Economy, and Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, signed a Letter of Intent which is the basis for the next steps. Together with partners, Rheinmetall plans to invest around €550 m in the new plant in Romania.

Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius: “Your success means security for our country”

The politicians praised the importance of the plant for Germany and Europe: “We are herewith investing in our security”, emphasised Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil in his speech. The Vice-Chancellor also reiterated: “This plant indicates that we are taking action”.

Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius addressed Rheinmetall and the defence industry as a whole: “We want you to be successful, because your success means security for our country”. And then continued: “You, the industry, deliver what is important: speed and substance”. He also categorized Germany’s efforts to increase arms production for the armed forces massively in the context of alliance policy: “NATO must become more European so that it can remain transatlantic”.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasised in his speech: “Strong and successful is exactly what Rheinmetall is”. He cast a warning glance at the massive armament efforts in Russia and China: “Their military build-up points in a clear direction: they are preparing for long-term confrontation and competition – with us”.

Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger accented: “From the groundbreaking to production in just 15 months – that’s a real turning point at Rheinmetall speed”. Since the ground-breaking ceremony in February 2024 and in just over a year of construction work, Rheinmetall has created the possibility to independently meet the requirements of the German Armed Forces from national production in the future and, if required, to guarantee independent deliveries to partner countries. “Our new national production facility is setting standards and will, above all, ensure the supply of the German Armed Forces”. Rheinmetall is not limiting itself to Germany when it comes to building such plants: “This means that we can also erect comparable plants in other NATO-countries within a very short time, thus creating a pan-European defence ecosystem”, Papperger emphasised. “For example, we have already launched specific projects in Lithuania and the United Kingdom, with more to follow”.

Rheinmetall in Unterluess

The traditional site in Unterluess, which Rheinmetall has been operating in the Suedheide region since 1899, is currently the Group’s largest worldwide with 3,200 employees. Two companies are based here: Rheinmetall Landsystems GmbH and Rheinmetall Weapon and Munition GmbH. Unterluess is also an important location for Rheinmetall IT Solutions GmbH. Alongside the ammunition production, the site’s activities also focus on the development and manufacture of weapon systems. At the same time, Rheinmetall maintains its competence centre for the development, construction and support of tracked vehicles here.

The company owns an area that covers a total area of about 60 square kilometres which is largely used as a firing and testing range. Nevertheless, large parts of it are also used for forestry.

 

05 Sep 25. Hanwha Aerospace, and its Europe based subsidiary Hanwha Aerospace Europe, along with the Polish Military Institute of Armament Technology (WITU), have signed a strategic cooperation MOU during the MSPO 2025 international defence exhibition. This agreement paves the way for deeper industrial cooperation and is a foundational step toward strengthening Poland’s sovereign defence capabilities, particularly in the ammunition sector. Under this MOU, Hanwha Aerospace and WITU have agreed to collaborate on various aspects of ammunition technology, including the design, testing, production, management, and life-cycle research of ammunition and propellants for Modular Charge Systems (MCS). The partnership will focus on joint qualification testing of 155mm ammunition based on platforms currently in operation by the Polish Armed Forces, the collaborative development of research methodologies and life-cycle testing programs, and the promotion of joint research and development projects to strengthen ties between academia and industry.

Colonel Paweł Sweklej, Director of WITU, said “This agreement opens up new possibilities for joint R&D projects and will materially strengthen Poland’s defence capabilities by building sustainable synergy with international partners.”

Billy Boo Hwan Lee, the Head of the PGM Business Group of Hanwha Aerospace said, “We are delighted to cooperate with WITU. I am confident that our joint initiatives in R&D and scientific exchange will strengthen our mutual capabilities and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for security and defence. As a key supplier to the Polish Armed Forces, Hanwha Aerospace views this cooperation as an opportunity to exchange and develop knowledge and best practices.”

Jacek Cyrek, the Head of Hanwha Aerospace Europe, added, “Strengthening cooperation with academia and industry is crucial for Hanwha. It builds sustainable bilateral relationships and lays the foundation for future technological breakthroughs. Cooperation with WITU, not only fosters technological advancement but also helps build a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship, which is key to future innovation.”

This strategic alliance marks a significant step toward enhancing Poland’s self-reliance in the defense sector. This deep technical collaboration serves as a cornerstone for establishing a sovereign production capability, ensuring a stable ammunition supply for Poland’s self-propelled howitzers and ultimately positioning Poland as a strategic hub for ammunition production and supply within the European and NATO framework.

 

04 Sep 25. Tiberius Aerospace secures UK MoD contract to develop Sceptre, their revolutionary new Ramjet 155mm munition. Tiberius Aerospace is a modern defence technology company built to empower the UK, US and their global allies with next generation weapon systems and AI powered solutions.  Tiberius is announcing the award of a UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) contract for the rapid trials and development of their liquid fuelled, 155mm Ramjet extended-range precision-guided artillery munition, called Sceptre (TRBM 155HG).  The specific details of the contract cannot be disclosed, but this contract puts the UK MoD in the position of being the launch customer for Tiberius Aerospace, investing in this exciting new technology and the US Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) who are facilitating the independent verification and validation for the testing of the technology.   Tiberius is an Aerospace sponsor at DSEi 25, Excel, London 9 – 12 September 2025 with dedicated meeting space and will share its ‘Silicon Valley’ approach to rapid design and development, and how there are opening up this approach to the entire defence industry with the launch of their GRAIL platform at 15:00hrs on Wednesday, 10th September 2025 at 1500 hrs at the Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) keynote forum, alongside UK and US defence innovation experts and those with recent operational experience.

Tiberius Aerospace was founded in 2022 by Chad Steelberg and Andy Baynes and Tiberius emerged from stealth mode at Future Artillery in May 2025 with the launch of Sceptre. The founders and Tiberius team have extensive Silicon Valley success and experience with technology giants such as Google and Apple.  The Tiberius team of engineers, strategists and entrepreneurs are applying best practices, innovative design and engineering expertise from multiple commercial sectors to deliver superior precision and dramatically improve the cost effectiveness of deep strike capabilities.

Sceptre (TRBM 155HG) is a revolutionary new 155mm ramjet extended-range precision-guided ballistic munition reaching speeds of Mach 3.5 and altitudes in excess of 65,000 feet (beyond jamming range).  Sceptre has an extended range up to 150km depending on payload (max 5.2kg) and superior targeting precision with a circular error probability (CEP) of less than 5m, even in GPS contested battlespaces, compared to over 100m for traditional artillery.  Designed with the customer and end user foremost, the system is fully compatible with NATO standard 155mm artillery platforms and its ignition system and limited barrel contact points minimises barrel degradation.  To reduce the logistics burden, minimise storage and in-transit safety hazards, and maximise shelf life beyond 20 years, Sceptre uses a proprietary just-in-time, multi-fuel (diesel, JP-4 and JP-8) liquid propellent design.

Andy Baynes, co-founder and CSO of Tiberius Aerospace said, “Since the launch of Sceptre in May 2025, Tiberius has evolved the capability at pace through a series of high tempo live-firing and synthetic test cycles.  We’re delighted to announce this UK MoD contract which has invested early in our technology development cycle.  This is testament to the UK’s visionary leadership and their understanding of the importance of driving innovative solutions such as Sceptre and Defense-as-a-Service to increase national security.”

 

 

03 Sep 25. Rheinmetall builds facility for destroying legacy ammunition. For the future to come, Rheinmetall is planning to destroy large quantities of legacy ammunition in the district of Dillingen an der Donau, Bavaria/Germany.  As part of explosive ordnance disposal projects in offshore and onshore areas, the Düsseldorf-based technology corporation intends to destroy not only legacy munitions from the two world wars, but also so-called ‘newer stockpiled ammunition’, and to take over the disposal of old stocks of the Bundeswehr and other NATO forces. An estimated 1.6 m tonnes of legacy munitions are believed to be on the seabed of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea alone. These include artillery shells, land and sea mines as well as aircraft bombs. In addition, over 2 m tonnes of bombs were dropped on Germany and the occupied territories during World War II. In southern Germany alone, it is estimated that there are still more than 20,000 tonnes of old ammunition that needs to be deactivated and disposed. Rheinmetall has acquired a site covering around 41 hectares on Lerchenberg, which is part of the Bavarian municipality of Zusamaltheim. The ammunition disposal facility is scheduled to commence operation in early 2026. The property, which also served as a Bundeswehr depot in the past, also has 32 bunkers that can store up to 900 tonnes of net explosive mass. In April of 2025, Rheinmetall had already acquired the ammunition recovery company Stascheit GmbH, based in Gardelegen, Saxony-Anhalt. Its main activities include the detection, evaluation, recovery and destruction of explosive ordnances, for example in connection with offshore wind farms. Like the new facility on Lerchenberg, Stascheit GmbH will also be integrated into the Projects & Services business unit of Rheinmetall AG.

 

29 Aug 25. Colt buys majority stake in $1bn gunpowder ingredient maker.

• Summary
• Colt buys majority stake in Synthesia Nitrocellulose
• Step toward larger-calibre ammunition market
• Energetic nitrocellulose in high demand as Europe rearms

Czech-based firearms maker Colt CZ Group SE has agreed to buy a majority stake and potentially all of the shares in Synthesia Nitrocellulose, in a deal valuing the Czech gunpowder ingredient maker at 22 bn crowns ($1.05 bn). Colt, which also has operations in the United States, Canada, Sweden, Switzerland and Hungary, said on Friday the deal with privately-owned chemicals group Synthesia would help to secure its supply chain and expansion into larger calibres, which are in high demand amid Europe’s rearmament drive. (Source: Reuters)

28 Aug 25. Rheinmetall CEO says new German plant could kick off ‘pan-European defence ecosystem.’ Rheinmetall’s new ammunition plant in northern Germany will be the largest in Europe at full capacity, said CEO Armin Papperger at its opening on Wednesday, and similar factories could be built at a comparable pace in other NATO countries. Those plants could contribute to a “pan-European defence ecosystem”, said Papperger at the event attended by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil. (Source: Reuters)

 

28 Aug 25. Rheinmetall to build $626m ammunition powder factory in Romania. Romania has signed a framework agreement with German technology and defence specialist Rheinmetall to build a munitions ignition powder factory for 535m euros ($626.3m), the country’s industry ministry said on Wednesday. European states have been boosting arms and munition production capacity since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. (Source: Reuters)

21 Aug 25. US Army awards $635m contract for artillery ammunition facility. The new facility will have the capacity to load 36,000 155mm artillery rounds a month. The US Army has awarded MSM Group North America a $635m contract to design, construct, and inaugurate the Future Artillery Complex (FAC) at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. The agreement is facilitated by the Joint Program Executive Office Armaments & Ammunition – Project Lead Joint Services and the Army Contacting Command – Rock Island. The advanced FAC will leverage 21st-century technology to deliver scalable and cost-effective explosive loading capabilities for the US Army. It will incorporate lean manufacturing techniques alongside fully integrated system control and data acquisition systems, enhancing safety for operators and ensuring consistent quality in the production of 155mm artillery rounds. The facility’s automation and robotics will enable transitions between products, minimising downtime and allowing operations to maintain economic viability across varying production demands, stated US Army. With a capacity to load 36,000 155mm artillery rounds per month, the FAC will be capable of handling both current and future munitions with a melt-cast process. This fixed-price contract with provisions for economic price adjustments represents a key investment in the Organic Industrial Base’s modernisation efforts. Armaments & Ammunition joint programme executive officer and Picatinny Arsenal commanding general major general John Reim said: “Modernising the industrial base and replacing critical munition stockpiles are high priorities for the Defense Department, projects like the FAC are geared to improve the Army’s ability to scale production between surge and down times while also providing flexible capacity to produce future go-to-war rounds.

“The FAC represents much-needed new technology investments to modernise the Arsenal of Democracy in order to meet the evolving demands of the warfighter in 2025 and beyond.”

The construction of the FAC is slated for completion within 40 months, with full operational status expected by September 2029. The facility will create approximately 70 jobs in manufacturing, quality assurance, and operational support. MSM North America chief executive officer ‍Jason Gaines said: “I extend my heartfelt thanks to the CSG team for their invaluable support and expertise, without which MSM North America would not have secured this opportunity. We are excited to collaborate with a top-tier team of American firms under MSM North America’s leadership to deliver this transformative project.”

In April 2025, the US Army opened a new facility dedicated to loading artillery projectiles. When operating at full capacity, this facility is expected to achieve 50% of the total monthly production goal for 155mm shells within the entire US industrial base. (Source: army-technology.com)

 

20 Aug 25. X-Bow Systems and US Army Announce $13.9m Joint Investment for Next-Gen GMLRS Rocket Motor. Investment to Boost Production of Critical Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Components. X-Bow Systems Inc (X-Bow), the leading non-traditional producer of advanced solid rocket motors (SRMs) and defense technologies, and the U.S. Army, with support from the Department of Defense Office of Strategic Capital (OSC), have announced a $13.9m joint investment. This collaboration aims to design, prototype, and test an advanced manufactured SRM for the standard-range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS). This joint investment, facilitated by OSC, is a strategic effort to address constraints in the nation’s production capacity for missiles, munitions, and SRMs, which are currently limited by older manufacturing processes. The initiative seeks to establish an alternative supply source and strengthen the solid rocket motor industrial base, using X-Bow’s patented advanced-manufactured solid-propellant (AMSP) processes for SRMs.

“This investment will introduce next-generation manufacturing for critical defense systems,” said Jason Hundley, CEO of X-Bow Systems. “Our Luling, Texas campus, using these advanced methods, will have the capability to produce thousands of SRMs, including GMLRS.”

OSC is supporting the U.S. Army in this effort through a cost-matching structure that facilitates this partnership, combining U.S. Government funding with private sector matching funds. This collaboration directly supports the Army’s objectives to secure a robust and reliable supply of critical munitions. This Advanced Manufacturing Pathfinder is being coordinated by OSC on behalf of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E)) and in support of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology (ASA(ALT)) and the Army’s Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space (PEO MS). X-Bow will partner with Kord Technologies, LLC (Kord), a wholly owned subsidiary of KBR, to develop this Pathfinder. Kord will provide systems engineering and technical support. The project will culminate in a static fire demonstration of the GMLRS propulsion prototype, supporting the development of a new non-traditional supplier for DoD. (Source: ASD Network)

 

19 Aug 25. BAE Systems is quietly ramping up production of 155mm artillery shells at Glascoed in rural South Wales. Output will have increased 16-fold from 2022 levels by the end of this year. Two months ago the defence group opened a new factory in Sheffield making gun barrels for the M777 lightweight howitzer, to be supplied directly to Ukraine. Poland is now producing a m bullets a day, up five times from pre-war levels. Annual output of Grot rifles will have risen six times to 100,000 by next year. Germany’s RheinMetall will soon be making 1.1 m howitzer shells a year, up from pre-war levels of 70,000. It is in talks to make armoured vehicles at Volkswagen’s surplus plant in Osnabrück. The weapons company is now worth more than VW, Munich Re or Deutsche Bank on the German bourse. A sign of the times. Europe’s missile conglomerate MBDA is building a plant with Raytheon in Germany that will produce more American Patriot air defence missiles than America itself. Production of the Franco-Italian SAMP/T – Europe’s answer to the Patriot – has risen fivefold compared to the original 2022 plan. The SAMP/T has largely closed the technology gap, lifting the range to 90 miles.  (Source: Daily Telegraph)

 

15 Aug 25. Mission complete, US carrier transfers ammunition to sister ship. The USS Harry S. Truman could be set to undergo an extensive overhaul of its reactors and other systems. Two months after returning from an eight-month deployment to the US 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation, the US Navy’s Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman conducted a five-day ammunition unload serial while underway in the Atlantic Ocean. Personnel from USS Harry S. Truman worked alongside Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 11 to transfer 1,185 tonnes of conventional munitions to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush and the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Robert E. Peary during vertical and connected replenishment operations between 3-8 August. Ammunition offloads are standard following deployments and before maintenance periods. In 2024, Truman supported a multi-ship offload with USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, USS Gerald R. Ford, and USNS William McLean, completing more than 1,700 ordnance transfers. The completion of Truman’s ammunition offload marks another milestone in the ship’s focus on sustained operational proficiency as it prepares for its next phase in the maintenance cycle. Since commissioning on 25 July 1998, the carrier has completed ten deployments. USS Harry S. Truman, the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Strike Group, is a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. For the US Navy, Carrier Strike Groups remain the cornerstone of the service’s forward presence through sea control and power projection. The US Navy’s Nimitz-class supercarriers were the largest warships afloat until the first of the successor Ford-class entered service in 2017. While the older Nimitz class will be replaced by the Ford-class carriers, the process is glacial with the eventual retirement of newest vessel, the USS George H. W. Bush, not likely for another couple of decades at least. It is likely that with the removal of ammunition, the USS Harry S. Truman is preparing to enter a refuelling and complex overhaul (RCOH) period, which generally occurs around mid-way through the aircraft carrier’s service.  (Source: naval-technology.com)

06 Aug 25. DRDO Successfully Conducts 2 Consecutive Flight-tests of Pralay Missile. Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted two consecutive successful flight-tests of Pralay missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam island off the coast of Odisha on July 28 & 29, 2025. The flight tests were carried out as a part of User Evaluation Trials to validate the maximum and minimum range capability of the missile system. The missiles precisely followed the intended trajectory and reached the target point with pin-point accuracy meeting all the test objectives. All subsystems performed as per expectations, which were verified using test data captured by various tracking sensors deployed by Integrated Test Range (ITR) including instruments deployed on ship positioned near the designated impact point. Pralay is an indigenously-developed solid propellant quasi-ballistic missile employing state-of-the-art guidance and navigation to ensure high precision. The missile is capable of carrying multiple types of warheads against various targets. The system has been developed by Research Centre Imarat in collaboration other DRDO labs – Defence Research & Development Laboratory, Advanced Systems Laboratory, Armament Research & Development Establishment, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) and ITR etc; industry partners – Bharat Dynamics Limited & Bharat Electronics Limited and many other industries and MSMEs. The flight-tests were witnessed by senior scientists of DRDO, representatives of the users from the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army as well as the industry representatives. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has complimented DRDO, the Armed Forces and the Industry for the successful flight-tests. The missile equipped with modern technologies will give further technological boost to the Armed Forces against threats, he said. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat congratulated the teams, stating that the successful completion of this phase-1 flight tests paves the way for induction of the system into the Armed Forces in near future. (Source: ASD Network)

 

05 Aug 25. L3Harris Advances Latest Missile Defense Designs to Production Stage. Milestone supports accelerated development of enhanced U.S. missile warning and tracking capabilities. In a major stride toward bolstering our nation’s missile defense capabilities, L3Harris and the Space Development Agency (SDA) have achieved the Critical Design Review and Production Readiness Review for SDA’s Tranche 2 Tracking Layer. Advancing this program to the production stage marks an important step toward a next-generation, layered defense architecture that can track threats in real time.

“L3Harris is committed to working closely with SDA to put proliferated missile warning and tracking capability on orbit as quickly as possible,” said Rob Mitrevski, President, Golden Dome Strategy and Integration, L3Harris. “We demonstrated that L3Harris’ production design approach achieves both of SDA’s pillars of proliferation and spiral development. Our relentless pursuit of continued design improvement at scale is how L3Harris will answer the President’s call for a robust constellation of space-based sensors that can defend our nation against complex threats.”

The L3Harris Tranche 2 Tracking Layer design includes technology that can detect, track and target advanced missile threats on a global scale at low latency. The review validated that L3Harris’ space vehicle and ground system designs meet mission requirements and can proceed to production. To meet SDA’s goals for rapid delivery of this capability for national defense, L3Harris production facilities are already building major assemblies for the T2 space vehicles. The company’s designs for the T2 program build upon our designs for Tranche 1, as well as for SDA’s Tranche 0 and the Missile Defense Agency’s Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS) satellites, already on orbit.  L3Harris is supporting SDA’s Tracking Layer across all three tranches of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), a robust constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit that will provide near-global missile warning, tracking and defense capability. In addition, L3Harris is building eight electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) payloads for SDA’s Fire-control On Orbit-support-to-the-war Fighter, or FOO Fighter program. L3Harris has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure and manufacturing processes across the United States, including $250 m to renovate and expand manufacturing facilities for space-based missile warning and defense technologies in Indiana, Florida and Massachusetts. L3Harris produces a range of proven technologies that could further enable the Golden Dome for America, including advanced space satellites, datalinks, multi-domain ISR, precision fire-control sensing, and propulsion and control systems for interceptors. (Source: ASD Network)

31 Jul 25. IDEF 2025: Türkiye unveils Mk 84 Gazap fragmentation bomb. Türkiye unveiled its Mk 84 Gazap (Wrath) bomb at the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025 held in Istanbul from 22 to 27 July. Developed by the Turkish Ministry of National Defenseʼs Research and Development Centre, the indigenously produced munition is the largest and most powerful member of the Mk 80 family of freefall low-drag general purpose (GP) munition that can deliver thousands of fragments optimised to target personnel and light armoured targets. Gazap has a length of 2.6 m and a diameter of 460 mm, with a launch weight of 907 kg. After launch from an aircraft, it follows a ballistic trajectory towards its target, stabilised by four tailfins. It delivers 453 kg of TBX filling, with an impact, time delay fuze, dispersing 10,000 fragments at a density of 10.16 fragments/m². The munition can be mounted on underwing pylons and is compatible with aircraft certified to carry the Mk 84 GP bomb. It is also compatible with guidance kits developed for that bomb. (Source: Janes)

 

31 Jul 25. RDM ammunition exports are above board – Motshekga. According to Defence and Military Veterans Minister, Angie Motshekga, Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM) is “a proudly South African company” operating “in accordance with national legislative requirements”. She was answering a Parliamentary question posed by Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of Parliament (MP) Carl Niehaus who alleges that 155 mm ammunition produced by RDM finds its way to Israel and Gaza.

Her written reply notes “no contracts [awarded to or won by RDM], in line with industry confidentiality” can be shared. The response has it further “RDM is committed to being an ethical corporate citizen, which always entails abiding by the laws of South Africa”.

“As such RDM strictly adheres to and is restricted by all relevant legislation, including [South African] export regulations.”

The Motshekga reply lists 16 international and local organisations/groups/treaties RDM has to comply with before it can export any product. When it comes to South African legislative prescripts RDM is bound by ten, ranging from the National Conventional Arms Control (NCAC) Act to the Explosives and Nuclear Energy acts. Motshekga further informs her questioner “the South African munitions trade is highly regulated” and aligns the country with “all other international requirements” as committed to by South Africa. Her reply ends stating “RDM is not able to deliver products to clients until receipt of a EUC (end-user certificate) and an export permit from the DCAC (Directorate Conventional Arms Control) has been issued”. Another safeguard is the “third party attending to shipment and delivery” can only deliver to the address specified in the export licence and after complying with all other legislative requirements. RDM was established through a joint venture between Rheinmetall Waffe Munition and Denel in 2008. RDM employs 2 600 people at its four sites located at Somerset West, Wellington, Potchefstroom and Boksburg. Earlier this month, RDM announced the largest order in its history. Sweden ordered R7.3 bn worth of 155 mm artillery rounds for delivery between 2025 and 2027. The record order comes on the back of a major 155 mm ammunition order for a customer worth tens of ms of euros that was announced at the beginning of June. RDM specialises in designing, developing, manufacturing, and demilitarising medium—to large-calibre ammunition. The company said it is particularly proud of its status as the world leader in long-range artillery and its reputation for excellence in artillery suites, rockets and warheads for missile and other applications, mortar bombs, tank ammunition, air-launched munitions, and infantry munitions.

“Rheinmetall Denel Munition is on a growth path and continues to serve as a strategic global partner and actively contributes to developing defence technology in South Africa. The Rheinmetall Group continuously invests in increasing Rheinmetall Denel Munition’s production capacity in response to the escalating demand for defence goods,” RDM CEO Dr Frank Dirksen said last year. “We have started expanding additionally within Rheinmetall Denel Munition, including acquiring land to expand one of our operations. We expect our growth to double by the end of 2025,” Dirksen added. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

 

31 Jul 25. Rheinmetall will deliver 40mm ammunition to Lithuania and hand grenades to Estonia – total order value around €33m. Estonia awarded Rheinmetall a framework contract in the second quarter of 2025 for the delivery of hand grenades. Splinter grenades are to be delivered in 2026 and 2027, and offensive hand grenades from 2026 to 2029 – in significant numbers in each case. The order is worth around €17m gross. Back in December 2024, Lithuania had already placed an order with Rheinmetall for several tens of thousands of 40 mm x 46 high-explosive fragmentation (HE Frag) combat cartridges. The order is worth around €16 m gross. The ammunition is to be delivered in 2026 and 2027.  As a “one-stop shop” for 40 mm systems Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading suppliers of ammunition, weapon systems and firing control systems in this field. Rheinmetall’s 40 mm x 46 low-velocity ammunition can be used in all standard grenade launchers and attachable grenade launchers in this calibre. It reaches a velocity of 76 m/s and has an effective range of 400 metres. Other NATO countries also use this modern ammunition. Compared to LV cartridges, the new 40 mm x 46 Medium Velocity (MV) ammunition has an acceleration of around 100 m/s and a flat trajectory, so targets can be attacked faster and hence, increases the effective range to 900 m. In 2025, Rheinmetall will bring its Squad Support Weapon 40 to series production, the world’s first magazine-fed automatic shoulder-fired grenade launcher, capable of firing MV and LV ammunition. In combination with the broad spectrum of Rheinmetall’s 40 mm LV/MV ammunition portfolio, infantry users will achieve unprecedented flexibility and effectiveness on the battlefield. Rheinmetall’s 40 mm ammunition range also includes 40 mm x 53 ammunition (high velocity) for automatic grenade launchers. This has a muzzle velocity of 130 m/s and a range of up to 2,000 metres.

 

26 Jul 25. New home for Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal troop. Fantastic new facilities have been provided for a British Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit in Nuneaton, Warwickshire.  A specialist Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) troop has moved into its new home at Gamecock Barracks, Nuneaton.  The newly-named Nuneaton EOD Troop – formerly Nottingham EOD Troop and part of 721 EOD Squadron Royal Logistic Corps – relocated in July from Chetwynd Barracks in Nottingham to Gamecock Barracks. The Squadron belongs to 11 EOD and Search Regiment, the British Army specialists responsible for the safe handling and disposal of explosives, ensuring the safety of civilians and military personnel, with squadrons based across the UK.   The sale of Chetwynd Barracks forms part of the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio, which is investing £5.1 bn in creating a Defence estate that better meets the future needs of the Armed Forces while improving the lived experience of military personnel. As part of this process, DEO is releasing public sector land for alternative use, which includes supporting government housing targets, and reinvesting the receipts back into the Defence estate.   The newly-built EOD compound at Gamecock Barracks which consists of an office building, garage, secure store, and a training area has been delivered under the DEO Army Programme by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) contracting to VIVO, with subcontractors Tetra Tech as designer and Henry Brothers appointed to build the new facility.

Major General Richard Clements CBE, Director of Army Basing and Infrastructure said:   “The investment in Gamecock Barracks demonstrates how we are working to improve our infrastructure to meet the needs of the modern Army – and to enable our people to perform at their best.   The truly impressive new facilities that have been delivered for Nuneaton EOD Troop are an example of critical infrastructure that directly strengthens our operational capabilities.”

Warren Webster, DIO’s Head of Major Programmes and Projects for the Army, said:  “These impressive new facilities were crucial to allow 11 EOD and Search Regiment to operate from their new home, Gamecock Barracks. We’ve worked hard with our design contractors Tetra Tech and build contractors Henry Brothers, sub-contracted by VIVO, to make sure it caters for everything the Regiment’s soldiers and officers need to prepare for and undertake their vital role. 11 EOD and Search Regt is responsible for ensuring all land service ammunition and explosives are stored and maintained appropriately, as well as providing the Army with technical support to ensure it can fulfil its responsibilities in dealing with ammunition.   As those responsible for the safety of the public from explosive, chemical, biological and radiological threats, this work is essential to UK resilience, as Capt Robert Soutar, second in command at 721 EOD Squadron explained:    We are the most highly decorated peace time Regiment in the British Army: providing the highest level of EOD, Search and Electronic Warfare support to Defence and the Home Office. We are unique within the Army in that we deliver our capability 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round. This team is one of 15 national teams that keep us safe from bombs and explosive risks.

Speaking about the new facilities, Paul Bond, Operations Director for the Built Estate Central region at VIVO Defence Services, said:   “As one of the UK’s largest providers of estate services to the MOD, we’re proud to serve the UK military and help enable its defence capability. I’m pleased we’ve provided such an excellent, innovative and secure facility, specifically designed and built with the EOD Troop relocating to it in mind so it aids them in the important work they do. I’m confident this will be a great new home for them for years to come.   Thank you to all those involved across VIVO and our supply chain and thank you to DIO, Army infrastructure and Gamecock’s base commanders for such close cooperation on this project.

Managing Director of Henry Brothers Construction, Ian Taylor, added:  “Henry Brothers has been involved in a significant number of schemes across the UK, helping to upgrade and improve MOD sites, including several in partnership with VIVO Defence Services. We are very proud to have been involved in delivering a new home for the EOD Troop as the troop moves from Chilwell in Nottingham to Gamecock Barracks near Nuneaton. This development, which is part of the MOD’s investment into the Armed Forces, will give them modern, purpose-built, secure facilities as they start a new chapter in the history of the Troop.” (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)