German-Indian defence alliance strengthens ammo supply chain
The Rheinmetall AG conglomerate from Germany and Reliance Defence Ltd from India have established a strategic partnership in the field of ammunition. The agreement covers the supply of explosives and propellant charges, marking a step towards strengthening supply chains and fostering the development of both companies.
The German Rheinmetall and Reliance Defence Ltd from India have signed a memorandum of strategic cooperation in the production of ammunition. This agreement involves Reliance delivering explosives and propellants for medium and large-calibre ammunition produced by Rheinmetall.
Furthermore, the agreement includes the construction of a modern manufacturing plant by Reliance Defence Ltd in Watad Industrial Area in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The factory will be one of the largest in South Asia, with an annual production capacity of up to 200,000 artillery shells, 10,000 tonnes of explosives, and 2,000 tonnes of propellant charges.
Collaboration with Reliance provides Rheinmetall with access to key raw materials, thereby strengthening supply chains and opening up new development opportunities. The new plant in India will aid in supplying the country's armed forces and support the government's vision of achieving a defence export value of $5 (€4.4) billion.
This is the artillery ammunition Rheinmetall produces
When it comes to artillery shells, the largest volume consists of the simplest and most economical DM121 shells, which feature a base bleed design and can achieve a range of up to 30 kilometres when used with artillery systems equipped with 52-calibre barrels, such as the Polish Krab or the German RCH 155.
These types of shells are, in essence, a 9-kilogram TNT-filled cast shell with a threaded top intended for a detonator. This can be a straightforward impact detonator or something more advanced, such as a Ralec fuse that allows detonation in mid-air, for example, 10 metres above the target.
The second largest group consists of the slightly more expensive M1711A1 shells, which are equipped with a gas generator. Located at the base of the shell, it generates smoke that does not serve as propulsion but reduces the shell's base drag. Consequently, with the same amount of TNT as in the simpler shells, the effective range increases by about 30%, reaching up to 40 kilometres for long-barrel guns.
The third category, which is the smallest due to its complexity and cost, includes V-LAP shells with rocket boosters. These shells can strike targets at distances exceeding 50 kilometres, albeit at the cost of a slightly reduced TNT charge. Alternatively, there are self-targeting shells like the SMArt 155, which self-guide onto targets such as tanks.
However, all these shells require propellant charges and TNT or other explosive charges, which have become scarce since February 2022. It appears that the Germans have found a suitable source in India, a nation keen on advancing its defence industry and ammunition production capacity.
