Rheinmetall, Europe’s leading arms manufacturer, has announced the commencement of construction on a new 155 mm artillery shell production facility in Baisogala, Lithuania. The plant aims to strengthen Europe’s military supply chain amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Scheduled to begin operations in mid-2026, the facility is expected to initially produce 35,000 shells annually, with plans to increase production to 100,000 shells per year by 2027. The project represents a significant investment, valued at approximately €300 million, and underscores Rheinmetall’s commitment to expanding its manufacturing capacity within Europe.
The new plant is part of broader efforts to enhance regional defense capabilities, particularly in response to current security challenges in Eastern Europe. Lithuania has emphasized the importance of boosting its defense industry, and the facility is expected to create jobs and promote technological development locally.
While details regarding the specific export policies or operational logistics have not been fully disclosed, the project signals a notable development in European defense infrastructure. The plant’s establishment aligns with ongoing efforts to modernize military arsenals across the continent amid evolving security concerns.