Australia is poised to award a contract to produce 155mm shells domestically

23 October, 2024 155mm shells from the Australian company NIOA. Photo credits: NIOA The Australian Department of Defence is finalizing the search for a domestic manufacturer of 155-mm ammunition with whom it will sign a contract in the near future.

Breaking Defense reported on this with reference to Defense Acquisition Minister Pat Conroy. According to the media, Australia does not buy shells of its own production, but receives them from the North African branch of Rheinmetall, which produces them at Denel's facilities. Nevertheless, the country produces artillery ammunition that is exported only.

Production of 155mm artillery ammunition at NIOA facilities.

Photo credits: NIOA

According to the defense acquisition minister, the Australian Department of Defence is currently considering three companies that will be able to produce artillery ammunition domestically. Among them are NIOA-Rheinmetall, the Australian branch of Thales, and a third company that is currently unknown. "I think our government's been really clear.

You just look at the investment they put into guided weapons and explosive ordnance in Australia," Australian Army Maj. Gen. Richard Vagg said.

Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, global demand for artillery ammunition has skyrocketed, with Australian manufacturers also investing in expanding production of 155mm shells. In addition, due to the complex geopolitical situation in the Pacific region and the expansion of the Australian Army's artillery fleet, the Department of Defence is seeking to create sufficient reserves for a potential conflict.

The first AS9 Huntsman self-propelled artillery system made for the Australian Army. October 2024.

Republic of Korea: Photo: @mason_8718

In the context of strengthening the country's defense capabilities, purchasing shells is more of a state position to strengthen the domestic defense industry than a major need for the military. The country is investing heavily in expanding the production of various types of missiles and purchasing a large range of missiles for a potential war at sea. One of these areas is the purchase of anti-aircraft missiles from the United States, which is Australia's main supplier of this type of missile.

Militarnyi previously reported that Australia had announced the purchase of SM-2 and SM-6 missiles worth £4.68 billion.