The Ministry of Defense of Spain signs additional contracts for the production of ammunition with the local defense contractor, Rheinmetall Expal Munitions.

The Defense News reported on this.

The signing of the new contract by the Spanish Ministry of Defense follows a call for European countries to ramp up ammo production due to the high demand for artillery ammunition.

For months, defense officials of some countries have urged European Union members to pressure their arms industries to increase munitions production.

Due to pressure, the Spanish Ministry of Defense signed a contract with Rheinmetall Expal Munitions in December 2023 to produce 120mm mortar rounds.

The contract is estimated at $4.67 million.

In addition, a tender for the production of 155-mm artillery shells is currently being held among Spanish companies. The main condition of the tender is companies’ ability to produce shells in large volumes.

The tender is due to close in January 2024, after which the Ministry will place a large order for 155mm ammunition.

The cost of allocated funds for the purchase of 155-mm artillery ammunition is $531 million.

As Militarnyi previously reported, the Norwegian government will allocate NOK 2 billion ($190.48 million) to increase the potential of the country’s defense industry.

Norwegian Defense Minister, Björn Arild Gram, reported that Oslo will increase Nammo’s production capacity to meet the needs of Norway, its allies, and Ukraine.

“Improving the capabilities of the defense industry is important for both Ukraine and our own security,” the Minister said.