The Polish government has decided to significantly ramp up the production of large-caliber artillery ammunition amid the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war and the growing threat from Russia. Poland’s Minister of State Assets, Jakub Yaworowski, announced that the defense consortium PGZ plans to increase the production of 155 mm shells from the current 30,000 to 150,000–180,000 units per year over the next three years.
This is reported by Finway
Investments in Strengthening Defense Capabilities
To implement this large-scale project, 2.4 billion zlotys (approximately 663 million USD) will soon be allocated from the Polish state budget. The production facilities of the PGZ consortium not only allow for the manufacturing of 155 mm ammunition for artillery systems, including howitzers, but also 120 mm shells for tanks.
“Our short-term goal is to significantly increase the production of this type of weapon and become independent from foreign suppliers,” Yaworowski stated.
Ammunition Shortage and the Need for Independence from Imports
According to the minister, the experience of the war in Ukraine has demonstrated the critical importance of 155 mm ammunition on the battlefield – they are a key element for effective defense and require substantial stockpiles. Poland is currently facing a severe shortage of such shells. According to estimates from the National Security Bureau, the existing stockpiles would only last for a week or two of active combat in the event of a Russian attack, and some types of ammunition would last only 5–7 days.
Increasing production will allow Poland not only to strengthen its own defense capabilities but also to reduce dependence on foreign arms suppliers amid the threatening situation in the region.