Ukraine and Czechia launch joint artillery shell production
Ukraine and Czechia launch joint artillery shell production (Getty Images)
Czech company Excalibur Army has opened an official office in Ukraine and plans to launch joint production of artillery shells in cooperation with Ukrainian Armor, the company's press service reported.
Excalibur Army is one of the largest arms suppliers to Ukraine. The opening of its local office aims to support joint production of NATO-caliber artillery ammunition.
The Ukrainian branch of Excalibur Army will be responsible for handling orders, providing technical consultations, and managing documentation.
A key focus of the new Excalibur Army office in Ukraine will be the joint production of 155 mm and 105 mm artillery shells in partnership with the Ukrainian company Ukrainian Armor.
The launch of production lines is expected later this year. Initially, about 50% of production will be localized in Ukraine, including the manufacture of explosive components. This share is projected to increase to 80% over time.
According to Ukrainian Armor CEO Vladyslav Belbas, the company is ready to produce over 100,000 units of 155 mm shells and another 50,000 of 105 mm caliber as soon as a state order is placed. The project is also expected to create new jobs for Ukrainian specialists.
Czech initiative
Last year, Czech President Petr Pavel announced that his country had located 800,000 artillery shells available for purchase to support Ukraine, contingent on funding from international partners. Later, it became clear that Ukraine received significantly more munitions under the so-called Czech Initiative.
Recently, it was revealed that Czechia will be able to supply Ukraine with the same amount of ammunition in 2025 as it did in 2024 — around 1.5 million units — as part of this ongoing effort.
