Ukraine to Start 155-mm Shell Production with Norwegian Technology

Ukraine will launch the production of 155-mm shells using the technology of the Norwegian company Nammo.

The Norwegian government stated that it had opened the way for the transfer of Norwegian defense technologies to Ukraine.

Nammo is one of the largest ammunition producers in Europe.

“Our government has taken several steps to increase the production of artillery ammunition in Norway. At the same time, we recognize the importance of strengthening the capacity of Ukrainians to produce modern ammunition in Ukraine,” said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Nammo has signed an agreement with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency to significantly increase the production of artillery ammunition and missiles.

According to the plan, the production of shells can be increased by 10 times, and other shells and rocket engines by half. Production of 120-mm tank ammunition will also be increased.

“We are enabling Nammo to significantly increase its production capacity to help meet the needs of Norway, NATO and Ukraine,” said Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram.

The government has allocated funds to allow Nammo to transfer technology and experience to a Ukrainian partner. The funding will be provided under the Nansen program.

On January 1, 2024, the Norwegian government approved a decision to directly sell weapons and defense products to Ukraine.

Export licenses for direct sales will be granted only on a case-by-case basis and will be carefully evaluated.

The Nansen program provides 5-year support for Ukraine. Its total cost is NOK 75 billion. In early 2023, the Norwegian government announced an acceleration of funding for the program by NOK 2.5 billion, bringing the total amount of support to NOK 10 billion.

In January, it was reported that the Norwegian government would allocate NOK 2 billion ($190.48 million) to increase the potential of the country’s defense industry. Norwegian defense company Nammo will receive NOK 1 billion of these funds.