Rheinmetall plans to build a factory for the production of ammunition in Lithuania
The German arms giant Rheinmetall plans to build an ammunition production plant in Lithuania. The relevant memorandum on construction intentions was signed by the Lithuanian government and the Rheinmetall company. AFP emphasizes that this announcement is a manifestation of intentions to rearm Europe against the background of the Russian threat.
“This will be the largest investment in Lithuania’s defense,” said the Minister of Economy of Lithuania, Aushrine Armonaite. It is a factory for the production of 155-mm artillery shells.
It’s time for us, a democracy, to strengthen our arsenal, which is a condition for protecting freedom
Prime Minister of Lithuania Ingrid Šimonite emphasized that it is time for democracies to strengthen their arsenal: “It is time for us, a democracy, to strengthen our arsenal, which is a condition for protecting freedom,” Šimonite said on the social network X (formerly Twitter).
The head of the Lithuanian government also noted that the memorandum of understanding with the Rheinmetall AG company “laid the foundation for the construction of a plant for the production of artillery ammunition in Lithuania” and “long-term cooperation.”
Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurinas Kaschunas said that the war in Ukraine showed the importance of independent supply of ammunition “as an integral part of national security and defense.” Previously, the Lithuanian Minister of Defense expressed the hope that Rheinmetall would put the plant in Lithuania into operation by 2025.
The Lithuanian government and Rheinmetall agree on the location of the plant and the amount of required investment. The Minister of Economy of Lithuania emphasizes that the new investments will bring profit and help Lithuania to ensure autonomy in arms procurement.
As previously reported by the Voice of America, Rheinmetall and Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar are building factories in Ukraine. Three other French companies that make drones and equipment for the ground forces are close to similar deals. Last month, Germany and France announced a joint venture through defense conglomerate KNDS to manufacture parts for tanks and howitzers in Ukraine, and eventually entire weapons systems.
See also: NYT: Ukraine may face a boom in military production
