Belgium Opens New KNDS Facility to Produce 155 mm Artillery Shells

The new Large-Calibre Machining and Banding Unit (UCGC) for 155mm artillery shells at KNDS Belgium | Photo: KNDS

Belgium’s Minister of Defence, Théo Francken, inaugurated a new large-calibre artillery shell production unit at KNDS Belgium’s facility in Petit-Roeulx-lez-Nivelles on November 4, 2025. The new Large-Calibre Machining and Banding Unit (UCGC) will produce 155 mm artillery shells and expands the company’s existing industrial capacity to meet growing demand for ammunition in Europe.

The facility adds a third automated production line for large-calibre munitions to KNDS Belgium’s operations. The new line is expected to enhance the country’s ability to manufacture its own 155 mm shells for both national and allied requirements.

Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Francken said, “One production line, two benefits: autonomy and jobs. By manufacturing our ammunition ourselves we keep the economic value added here and gain strategic strength. In 2026, with our CAESAR howitzers ready for use, we will be firing Belgian munitions.”

Walloon Minister for Economy, Industry and Employment, Pierre-Yves Jeholet, described the facility as “a genuine demonstration of KNDS Belgium’s teams technological expertise, within a rapidly growing company.”

Jean-Michel Girard, Director of KNDS Belgium, said the company expects to dedicate about six months of production in 2026 to shells for the Belgian Defence. “This is a great source of pride for our company, which has been serving the Land Force for almost 90 years,” Girard said. He added that the project supports innovation and skills development while maintaining an ongoing dialogue with the Ministry of Defence on technical and operational needs.

Girard also noted the importance of maintaining domestic industrial capacity in the munitions sector, stating that “with 350 employees, KNDS Belgium is a key player in Belgium’s defence industrial and technological base, and a globally recognised partner.”

Major-General Filip Borremans, National Director of Armaments, said, “The start-up of this automated 155 mm shell production line in Belgium marks a crucial step in strengthening our strategic autonomy, both nationally and at the European level.”

The development comes amid increased efforts across Europe to expand defence industrial output, especially for artillery ammunition, in response to sustained demand generated by NATO and European Union member states.