Progress in European Ammunition Production: Insights from the ASAP Programme
The European Commission has reported significant advancements under the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) programme, highlighted during a recent site evaluation at Chemring Nobel’s production site in Norway.
On-Site Evaluation and Key Developments
On October 21, 2025, representatives from the Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS) conducted an in-depth assessment of three ASAP projects managed by Chemring Nobel. The visit revealed that substantial construction milestones have been achieved and vital production equipment has been successfully integrated, aiming to bolster the facility’s output capacity. This firsthand observation validated the considerable progress attained with European financial backing and emphasized the programme’s essential role in expediting production timelines within the European defence sector.
Financial Investment and Capacity Enhancement
Chemring Nobel has recently received €66.7 million from the EU to more than double its capacity for explosive production. This financial injection is a pivotal aspect of a coordinated European strategy aimed at enhancing the manufacturing capabilities of ammunition, propellants, and explosives across the continent and its allied nations.
Key investment details include:
- Objective: Increase production capabilities for ammunition and related materials.
- Focus Areas: Gunpowder, explosives, testing facilities, and missile systems.
Addressing Supply Chain Bottlenecks
The ASAP programme is specifically designed to mitigate critical bottlenecks in the ammunition supply chain. It provides funding for initiatives that elevate the production of:
- Gunpowder and propellants
- Explosives and shells
- Testing infrastructure
- Missiles
These ASAP-funded projects directly contribute to the European goal of achieving an annual output capacity of 2 million 155 mm artillery shells, which is vital for maintaining operational readiness in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.
Commitment to Operational Readiness
The European Commission remains resolutely dedicated to ensuring that its financial support is effectively translated into operational capabilities within Member States. Continuous monitoring will ensure the timely and efficient execution of EU defence industrial initiatives.
As the European defence landscape evolves, the role of the ASAP programme becomes increasingly critical. Ensuring robust supply chains and production capacities will be essential for maintaining strategic autonomy and operational effectiveness in the region.
