Europe races to boost ammunition production amid shortages
European ammunition production is operating at full capacity. The European Union plans to increase ammunition production capabilities to 2 million rounds annually by the end of 2025. However, increased production has depleted stocks of components like gunpowder and TNT.
In March of last year, the EU launched a program to enhance its ammunition production capabilities to 2 million rounds annually by the end of 2025. The EU allocated 500 million euros (776 million Canadian dollars). Norway, although not an EU member but integrated with the Community through numerous programs, contributed an additional 13 million euros (20 million Canadian dollars) to the fund.
Brussels allocated 248 million euros (385 million Canadian dollars) for the production of gunpowder and another 124 million euros (134 million Canadian dollars) for explosives. The EU will allocate 90 million euros (98 million Canadian dollars) for ammunition production.
European ammunition producers are intensifying efforts to secure supplies of chemicals and cotton, preparing for a significant increase in demand for explosives and propellants—Bloomberg reports.
Increased production of artillery shells, rockets, and bullets has led to the depletion of stocks of gunpowder, TNT, and other explosive and propellant materials across the continent.
Gunpowder production
European companies are steadily ramping up production. German Rheinmetall plans to boost gunpowder production by over 50% by 2028, yet even this may not suffice.
The entire European Union aims to increase the production of explosive materials by over 4,300 metric tonnes, which represents more than a 30% increase. This is equivalent to approximately 4,750 tonnes.
Manufacturers of alternative materials, such as PETN, HMX, and RDX, used in explosives, are overwhelmed—Bloomberg indicates. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Norwegian company Chemring Nobel has experienced unprecedented demand. The company reports that its operations in Norway are running at full capacity, with its order book filled for many years.
Bottlenecks
Just as explosives and propellants present bottlenecks for arms manufacturers, gunpowder and TNT producers also face constraints in their supply chains.
Some European countries, such as Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Poland, have well-developed chemical industries, yet precursors for explosive materials make up only a small portion of their production capabilities, according to the German Chemical Industry Association VCI.
High energy costs and environmental regulations make producing chemicals abroad more profitable, which is why many companies currently source precursors, such as nitric acid, from China.
