‘Ukrainian Armor’ plans to expand the production of artillery ammunition by constructing a new plant in Ukraine.

The company’s director, Vladyslav Belbas, told this in his exclusive interview with Militarnyi.

“This year will be focused on ammunition. We are planning to open another plant in the country, which will allow us to significantly increase our supply volumes,” Belbas stated.

He declined to specify the type of ammunition the new facility will produce. However, he noted that the Soviet-type 152mm shells are not part of the plan.

Currently, ‘Ukrainian Armor’ produces a full range of mortar shells, from 60- to 120-mm, as well as 122-mm artillery rounds, with the annual output exceeding 100,000 shells.

In addition to increasing production, the Ukrainian industry has significantly increased the localization of their production.

Vladyslav Belbas said that the proportion share of Ukrainian components in their ammunition has increased significantly over the past year. In particular, the cases and fuzes are now produced in Ukraine, ensuring stable supplies and reducing dependence on foreign partners.

Currently, the only imported components are gunpowder and explosives, which are limiting production due to a global shortage.

Belbas did not disclose prices, but noted that the cost of Ukrainian military products is generally cheaper than foreign-made alternatives. However, the price difference remains small due to the reliance on imported raw materials.

In addition to shells, ‘Ukrainian Armor’ also produces 60-mm, 82-mm, and 120-mm mortars, which are supplied to the Defense Forces.

According to Belbas, the company’s mortar production capacity will be 100% utilized by the end of 2024, with production already contracted at 50–70% for the following year. However, he emphasized that these percentages are conditional and do not reflect the company’s full production potential, as he explained in the interview.

Recently this month, the company unveiled its new VARTA 2 armored combat vehicle for the first time.