What's Happening?
Poland's WB Group has announced the development of 155 mm artillery ammunition, with plans to commence serial production by December 2026. The announcement was made on December 11, 2025, by the group's
CEO, Piotr Wojciechowski. Initial trials of the projectiles have been promising, and the company has already established an ammunition assembly center in western Poland. This facility will handle the storage of explosives and the production of finished rounds. Two types of ammunition, high-explosive hollow base (HE-HB) and high-explosive base bleed (HE-BB), will be manufactured. The company is currently sourcing fuzes from an external supplier and is in discussions with two European suppliers for propellent charges. The certification process is expected to be completed by September 2026, with an initial delivery of 5,000 to 10,000 rounds by the end of that year. Full-scale production is anticipated to reach 50,000 to 100,000 rounds annually by 2027.
Why It's Important?
The development of 155 mm artillery shells by WB Group is significant for the global defense industry, as it enhances Poland's capabilities in ammunition production and contributes to the broader defense supply chain. This move positions WB Group as a key player in the international market for artillery ammunition, potentially increasing competition and innovation in the sector. The production of these shells could also strengthen Poland's defense posture and provide strategic advantages in terms of military readiness and export potential. For the U.S. and its allies, the availability of additional sources for artillery ammunition could enhance supply chain resilience and operational flexibility, particularly in the context of increasing global security challenges.
What's Next?
As WB Group progresses towards full-scale production, the company will likely focus on completing the certification process both domestically and internationally. This dual-track certification approach aims to facilitate global market entry for their ammunition products. The company may also seek to establish partnerships or agreements with defense contractors and military organizations worldwide to secure orders and expand its market presence. Additionally, the successful implementation of this project could lead to further investments in research and development, potentially resulting in new innovations in artillery technology.
