Ukraine moves toward self-sufficiency in 105-mm artillery ammunition

The company Ukrainian Armour intends to begin manufacturing 105-mm M1 high-explosive fragmentation artillery ammunition in 2026, according to a report by Defence Express.

The publication notes that, from a technical standpoint, production capacity could reach up to 100,000 rounds annually. However, achieving such volumes will depend directly on the availability of sufficient financing and sustained government support.

The 105-mm M1 shell has a maximum firing range of up to 11.5 kilometres and carries approximately 2.18 kilograms of explosive, with a total projectile weight of 18.15 kilograms. It is a conventional high-explosive fragmentation round that is widely used by armed forces in numerous countries.

Defence Express journalists point out that Ukraine’s current production levels for ammunition of this category already exceed the manufacturing capacities of many European states. With adequate state funding, Ukraine would be able to meet part of the needs of its armed forces and potentially scale up output further.

Despite Ukraine having received only a limited number of artillery systems compatible with 105-mm ammunition, the country has maintained a niche for this caliber due to the ease of transporting and concealing the shells at firing positions. In addition, testing is underway of a domestically developed artillery system designed to operate with this type of ammunition.

By Tamilla Hasanova