Belgian Minister of Defence Théo Francken inaugurated a new Large-Calibre Machining and Banding Unit at KNDS Belgium today. This facility introduces a state-of-the-art automated production line dedicated to 155 mm artillery shells, directly addressing the surging global demand for munitions. The new unit significantly bolsters the company’s existing industrial capacity, which already operated two other production lines.
Minister Francken emphasized the dual strategic value of the investment. “One production line, two benefits: autonomy and jobs,” he stated. “By manufacturing our ammunition ourselves we keep the economic value added here and gain strategic strength.” He pointed to a key milestone, announcing, “In 2026, with our CAESAR howitzers ready for use, we will be firing Belgian munitions.”
The inauguration was also attended by Walloon Minister for Economy, Pierre-Yves Jeholet, who commended the project as “a genuine demonstration of KNDS Belgium’s teams technological expertise, within a rapidly growing company.”
Jean-Michel Girard, Director of KNDS Belgium, provided concrete figures on the project’s impact. “In 2026, nearly six months of production will be dedicated to shells for the Belgian Defence,” he revealed. Girard highlighted the company’s nearly 90-year legacy serving the Land Force and its role as a key industrial player. “With 350 employees, KNDS Belgium is a key player in Belgium’s defence industrial and technological base,” he said, noting that the investment generates vital workload while fuelling innovation and skills development.
The national strategic importance was underscored by Major-General Filip Borremans, National Director of Armaments. “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,” he confirmed. General Borremans explained that this new, scalable production capability enhances Belgium’s operational readiness, its interoperability within NATO, and contributes directly to the overall resilience of the European defence industry.
The new unit at KNDS Belgium represents a concrete step toward greater European self-reliance in defence manufacturing, ensuring a sovereign supply of critical artillery ammunition for national and allied forces.
