"In order to increase modular charge production capacity in Europe, including to establish an ammunition assembly plant in Latvia, a grant agreement has been signed between a consortium of defense industry companies from five European countries and the European Commission for the allocation of 41 million euros for the “ROLLO” project. Latvia is represented in this consortium and project by SIA “State Defence Corporation” (“Valsts aizsardzības korporācija”/VAK)," said a release from VAK itself.
The funds are intended for one of the largest projects being financed as Europe tries to increase its military production capacity, which goes under the name of 'Project ROLLO' and aims to increase modular projectile production capacity in Europe. The word 'ROLLO' is rather painfully derived from the words 'PROduction of moduLar charges with tripLe and double base prOpellant'.
Ingrīda Ķirse, a member of the board of the State Defense Corporation, said: “It is essential that our consortium includes companies that have established themselves in the defense industry and have proven themselves internationally. Namely, the leading partner is “KNDS Ammo” from Italy, “NAMMO” from Norway and Finland, and another “KNDS” group company from France. This allows Latvia and the State Defense Corporation to quickly gain the necessary experience for further development in order to start both the establishment of a production facility and the industrial development of the defense sector."
The project will supply Latvia's National Armed Forces as well as making Latvia an important link in international ammunition supply chains, she added.
According to VAK the “Phase Zero” of the project has already been concluded in Latvia: agreements and documents have been prepared and signed. The “First or practical implementation phase” of the project is currently being launched in order to start and implement the construction process of the production plant in 2025. Production is planned to start in the 3rd quarter of 2026.
SIA “Valsts aizsardzības korporācija” was established in November 2023 to develop the defense sector in the long term, manage it, and establish an ammunition factory promoting the supply of the National Armed Forces, the development of the national defense industry and the continuity of supply chains.
VAK is also tasked with promoting the attraction and acquisition of international financing, to create national and cross-border cooperation. VAK is a 100% state-owned capital company under the supervision of the Ministry of Defense.
