Work on the first fully Polish 155mm caliber artillery shell has begun in Piotrków Trybunalski. The project, carried out by the Pioma Foundry (part of the PGO S.A. Group) in cooperation with the Military Institute of Armament Technology (WITU), aims to create a NATO-compliant ammunition designed for, among other things, the Krab howitzer. The initiative is an important step toward Poland’s independence from foreign suppliers in the production of artillery ammunition.
Pioma Foundry and WITU: technological partnership
Pioma Foundry, which specializes in precision castings, has been supplying components for heavy industry for years. The partnership with WITU has enabled the development of a missile body that meets all NATO requirements. The project has been in development for two years. It involves full domestic production without the use of foreign licenses, underscoring the move toward technological autonomy in the defense sector.
Project schedule and production prospects
Work is currently underway on technological documentation and the creation of prototypes of the missile. Field tests are planned for late 2025/early 2026. If the results are satisfactory, serial production is expected to start in the second half of 2026. The target is to produce up to 180,000 units per year, which will significantly increase the national capacity to supply the armed forces with artillery ammunition.
Significance for the domestic defense industry
The start of 155mm missile production in Poland is of key importance for the domestic defense industry. It will increase independence in the supply of ammunition and strengthen Poland’s position as a manufacturer of NATO-compliant armaments. In addition, the project may contribute to the development of Polish munitions exports to foreign markets, especially in the context of growing demand for this type of armament.
The Krab howitzer and the NATO standard
The Krab howitzer, which is the main artillery system of the Polish Army, uses 155mm caliber ammunition compliant with NATO standards. The introduction of domestic production of shells of this caliber will ensure continuity of supply and increase the operational efficiency of artillery units. In addition, it will enable better adaptation of the ammunition to the specific tactical and operational needs of the Polish Armed Forces.
Sources: Pgosa, Investmap, Spider’s Web, Interia Biznes, Gov.pl / Photos: Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa
