Agreement will significantly expand production of Norwegian artillery ammunition
Press release | Date: 09/07/2024 | Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Defence
At the request of the Government, the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency has entered into an agreement with the aerospace and defence company Nammo that paves the way for a significant increase in the production of artillery ammunition and missiles. The agreement provides funding of more than NOK 1 billion, and Nammo has committed to maintaining the new production capacity for at least 15 years.
‘Ukraine has an enormous and urgent need for ammunition and weapons. The Government has implemented a number of measures to enhance production in the Norwegian defence industry. This agreement will make it possible for Nammo to expand production of highly sought-after military equipment. This is of great importance for Ukraine, for Allied security and for our own national preparedness,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
As a result of the agreement with the manufacturer in Raufoss, Norway, Nammo will be investing in a new production line that can increase production of the defence sector’s most modern artillery shells tenfold. The facility will also provide double the capacity for production of other artillery ammunition and rocket engines.
‘'We are enabling Nammo to increase its production capacity significantly to help meet Norwegian, Allied and Ukrainian needs. I am pleased that Nammo has committed to maintaining this capacity for at least 15 years. This is essential in order to strengthen national preparedness, safeguard international security and augment local value creation,’ said Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram.
- 155 mm artillery shells
- 120 mm shells for main battle tanks and/or other large calibre ammunition
- Solid rocket motors for missiles, such as AMRAAM
Artillery shells can be used in several types of artillery, including the M109 that Norway has donated to Ukraine. The rocket motors are central components in, among other things, the AMRAAM missiles used in NASAMS air defence. Norway has donated both NASAMS and anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine.
The Minister of Defence presented the agreement together with Nammo CEO Morten Brandtzæg in the lead-up to the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in Washington DC on Tuesday 9 July.
‘This represents a major step forward for Nammo, and it would not have been possible without the Government’s initiative. The new production line will give us an unprecedented increase in capacity. It will also create many jobs, promote growth, and greatly improve our ability to supply Norway, NATO and Ukraine,’ said Mr Brandtzæg.
Nammo will have the new production line up and running as soon as possible, and at the latest by the end of 2026. Nammo will maintain the new production capacity for at least 15 years.
