United to win: Finland increases artillery shell production to support Ukraine
Finland will more than double the production of artillery shells to increase its defense capabilities and provide long-term support to Ukraine.
Bloomberg reported that.
The government and industrial companies will invest 120 million euros ($130 million) to increase production capacity for artillery shells, of which about 24 million euros will be allocated by the defense ministry, the Ministry of Defense said in a statement released on Tuesday.
"The current decision will significantly increase the production capacity of heavy munitions in Finland, enabling long-term support of Ukraine until the 2030s. The increase in production is significant on a European scale and will also strengthen Finland's defense capabilities," said Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkanen.
The Department of Defense is also committing to long-term orders to ensure the viability of industrial investments, which are expected to be ready in 2026 and 2027.
According to Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkänen, the country with the largest artillery in Western Europe will also become one of Europe's largest producers of heavy ammunition.
"This decision emphasizes the long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine and strengthening the defense industry," Hakkänen said.
Recently, Finland has made substantial investments in its defense capabilities. They are currently awaiting the arrival of 64 multi-role fighters, the Lockheed Martin Corp. F–35A, to replace their older F/A–18 Hornets. Additionally, they are acquiring the David's Sling high-altitude missile to protect the shallow waters near its coast with a better interceptor system from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd and constructing four new corvettes to enhance defense in the shallow waters off their coast.
